Research has suggested that organizational safety climate affects health behaviors and workplace injury and illness rates. In this paper, we extend the conceptualization of the organization and examine how our broader organizational model predicts work disability. The data used in these analyses were obtained from the Maine Carpal Study II, a prospective observational community-based study of patients who received carpal tunnel surgery (CTS). Eligible workers were identified in community medical practices. Of 233 eligible patients referred to the coordinating center, 197 agreed to participate in the study and completed a baseline questionnaire. The number completing questionnaires at two, six and twelve months were 168, 158 and 159 respectively. The baseline features of the cohort include a mean age of 46 (SD 9.5), a mean symptom severity score of 3.4 (SD 0.7), and a mean functional limitations score of 2.7 (SD 0.8). Work disability was measured using the Work Limitations Questionnaire (WLQ) a new measure of work role functioning. Eight dimensions of organizational policy and practice (OPP’s) were measured: people-oriented culture, active safety leadership, safety training, safety diligence, ergonomic practices, disability management and labor-management climate. We report on the relationship between OPPs and the WLQ after adjustment for clinical, psychosocial, job and economic factors.
Learning Objectives: The attendeee will: have the ability assess the orgainzational policies and practices important for reducing work disability have the ability to measure successful retrun to work
Keywords: Occupational Health, Disasters
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.