A multi-method approach to assessing deadlines and workload variation among newspaper workers

Working under frequent deadlines was previously found to be associated with upper limb work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in newspaper workers. Further investigation was required so that concrete recommendations for change could be offered to the workplace parties (labour and management of a large metropolitan newspaper).

The assessment was based on three methods. A questionnaire was used to clarify time-related aspects of work on deadlines for a larger group of workers. Experience sampling was used to document temporal variation in various aspects of physical and psychological demands over work shifts and deadline cycles. Focus groups were also conducted.

Differences were found between the "High" and "Low" deadline groups: Those working with frequent deadlines more frequently were required: to work together with others, to perform tasks on a specific schedule and specific order, to work at a fast paced, to perceive their work as hectic and "hard". Experience sampling showed differential trends in workload across daily, weekly, and no deadline days. The lack of breaks for extended periods of time leading up to a deadline was noticeable. The focus groups were useful in highlighting issues not addressed by the other two methods and to understand the feasibility of various possible interventions.

The integration of results from all methods lead to recommendations for issues upon which to focus prevention related activities where deadlines are present: delays in work flow from others, interruptions from technology related problems, excessive work, insufficient staff/insufficient time, extra/unexpected work, compromising of work quality for speed, and lack of time for breaks.