Implementation of new working methods in the floor-laying trade: Long-term effects on knee load and knee complaints.

Background: This study compared floor laying using new working methods involving standing up, to the traditional methods involving working on one's knees.

Methods: The study group, 216 subjects, completed a training class in the use of the new floor-laying methods, and received free tools and advice in their use. The control group, 454 subjects, did not get any training, but were free to use the new methods if they wished.

Can we enhance the ability to return to work among workers with stress-related disorders?

Background: Stress-related disorders are widespread and responsible for high societal costs e.g. sick leave payment and reduced productivity.

[Treatment of stress, sick leave and occupational stability].

Introduction: The aim was to describe a rehabilitation process of individuals with stress-related adjustment disorders and analysing the prognostic impact of certain individual factors with sick leave and work resumption as outcome.

Methods: A retrospective cohort from the period 1996-2004 was conducted by means of an audit of 220 files of patients who have visited an occupational health care unit.

Results: A still increasing number of patients, mainly working in public health and welfare institutions, were admitted during the nine year study period.

Effects of training to implement new tools and working methods to reduce knee load in floor layers.

The purpose was to measure the effect of a participatory ergonomics implementation strategy consisting of information, education, and facilitation on the use of new tools and working methods in the floor laying trade. Floor layers (n=292) were trained in using new working methods. The effects were evaluated by using questionnaires, interviews, and assessments of quality and productivity.