Paddling upstream: a contextual analysis of implementation of a workplace ergonomic policy at a large newspaper.
Efforts to implement workplace ergonomic programs aimed at reducing the burden of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) have to address multiple physical and psychosocial aspects of work environments yet often contextual factors limit their success. We describe the processes involved in an ergonomic program to reduce neck and upper limb WMSDs at a large Canadian newspaper. Using qualitative data collection and analysis methods, we illustrate the impact of key contextual characteristics of: (1) the program (management commitment, union involvement, experience and skill of program leaders, and researcher involvement); (2) the organization (drive for productivity, management control, organizational culture); and (3) the broader social context (economic climate, nature of newspaper work, technology and nature of WMSD). We argue for increased attention to identification and response to the contextual factors affecting program implementation in order to more successfully address upstream determinants of WMSD.
Polanyi
Michael F
MF
Saskatchewan Population Health and Evaluation Research Unit, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada S4S 0A2.
Cole
Donald C
DC
Ferrier
Sue E
SE
Facey
Marcia
M
D002170:Canada; D012090:Cumulative Trauma Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006804:Ergonomics / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D009524:Newspapers as Topic; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D019982:Organizational Case Studies; D015279:Organizational Culture; D012944:Social Support; D017132:Workplace