Exploring ergonomists’ experiences after participation in a theoretical and practical research project on observational risk assessment tools

Abstract

The aim of this qualitative study was to explore how ergonomists experienced an e-learning concept as a tool for knowledge translation; furthermore, to explore what, if any, impact the knowledge translation had regarding the ergonomists' work with risk assessments. Methods. Twelve Swedish ergonomists employed in the occupational health service (OHS) participated in a research project, which included an e-learning program in risk assessment training. Focus group interviews and individual interviews were used for data collection. Results. The ergonomists appreciated the e-learning concept, e.g., its flexibility enabled them to decide when and where to practice. The concept was considered feasible within the context of the OHS. The ergonomists experienced an increased knowledge of different observation-based risk assessment tools, which expanded their professional toolboxes. Additionally, they began to reflect more regarding the reliability of risk assessment tools and how to enhance quality in risk assessment assignments. Conclusion. This study showed that e-learning may comprise an efficient knowledge translation for improved risk assessments in the OHS. The program contributed to changes in ergonomists' risk assessment procedures, e.g., in the selection of tools, increasing the number of observers, employing a participatory approach and more often actively involving stakeholders during the risk assessment process.

Company Representatives’ Experiences of Occupational Health Surveillance for Workers Exposed to Hand-Intensive Work: A Qualitative Study

“…Thereafter, the start-up meeting, communication, collaboration and supportive management were facilitating factors that made the process flow smoothly. In an earlier study, ergonomists reported that a start-up meeting for planning exposure assessments is important for establishing a mutual framework for the assessment and establishing contacts with the stakeholders [47]. In the present study, it was revealed that the planning at the start-up meeting should include a role and responsibility structure, and that a process leader who has the overall responsibility for the process should be appointed.…”

Reliability and Validity of Six Selected Observational Methods for Risk Assessment of Hand Intensive and Repetitive Work

“…Initially, the ergonomists individually learned and trained on the six selected methods during a three-week period using an e-learning platform [ 50 ]. The training encompassed: (1) a pre-recorded lecture on general aspects of risk assessment, (2) pre-recorded instruction videos with “walk-through” examples where the six selected methods were applied on different work tasks and (3) self-supported training using a video library with film clips (two to six minutes long) of different work tasks.…”