5316.0: Wednesday, November 15, 2000 - 9:00 PM

Abstract #9801

How the organization of work affects disability outcomes

Karen S Markel, MA and Karen Roberts, PhD. School of Labor and Industrial Relations, Michigan State University, S. Kedzie Hall, East Lansing, MI 48864

This paper examines the effect of employer safety practices, the structure of work, and the role of the supervisor in implementing safety practices on workplace outcomes. Data have been collected from both a random sample of injured workers and their employers. Sample size is approximately 1100. Employer safety practices include the role of management in the awareness of safety hazards and implementation of safety procedures, the resource allocation to address unsafe conditions and the allocation of personnel to address injured workers' needs. The role of the supervisor is measured by their implementation of safety practices, supportiveness of injured workers and whether their performance is tied to safe working conditions. Employee experiences include the backlash from the experience of a workplace injury supportiveness of coworkers, and the provision of benefits and support for the injured worker. Work structure measures include use of teams, availability of flexible hours, and pace of work.

Learning Objectives: At the end of this session the learner will be able to evaluate the relation between the organization of work and disability outcomes for a sample of injured workers

Keywords: Worksite, Disability Studies

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.

The 128th Annual Meeting of APHA