M Parish1, D S Rohlman2, D L Elliot3, M Lasarev4. 1. Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA, parish@ohsu.edu. 2. Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA. 3. Division of Health Promotion & Sports Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA. 4. Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Younger workers are more likely to be injured on the job than older workers. Investigation tends to focus on work-related explanatory factors but often neglects non-work-related causes. AIMS: To identify both work- and non-work-related factors that contribute to younger workers' injuries in seasonal work. METHODS: Two surveys of a set of seasonal parks and recreation workers were conducted measuring health and safety behaviours and self-reported injuries. RESULTS: Seventy per cent reported an injury at work over the summer. Among young workers, each additional year of age was associated with an almost 50% increase in injury rate (P < 0.05). Odds of injury in women were three times those for men (P < 0.05). We observed a linear relationship between average hours worked per week and injuries (P < 0.001). Alcohol abuse (P < 0.05) was also associated with injuries. CONCLUSIONS: Higher injury rates among younger workers in this sample is multifactorial and encompasses both work and non-work factors and suggest that more global approaches are required to address young worker safety.
BACKGROUND: Younger workers are more likely to be injured on the job than older workers. Investigation tends to focus on work-related explanatory factors but often neglects non-work-related causes. AIMS: To identify both work- and non-work-related factors that contribute to younger workers' injuries in seasonal work. METHODS: Two surveys of a set of seasonal parks and recreation workers were conducted measuring health and safety behaviours and self-reported injuries. RESULTS: Seventy per cent reported an injury at work over the summer. Among young workers, each additional year of age was associated with an almost 50% increase in injury rate (P < 0.05). Odds of injury in women were three times those for men (P < 0.05). We observed a linear relationship between average hours worked per week and injuries (P < 0.001). Alcohol abuse (P < 0.05) was also associated with injuries. CONCLUSIONS: Higher injury rates among younger workers in this sample is multifactorial and encompasses both work and non-work factors and suggest that more global approaches are required to address young worker safety.