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Engels M, Scheepers L, Engels J, Boß L, Kuhlmann R, Kuske J, Lesener L, Pavlista V, Schmidt-Stiedenroth K, Diebig M, Ruhle SA, Zapkau FB, Angerer P, Hoewner J, Lehr D, Schwens C, Süß S, Wulf IC, Dragano N. Web-based occupational stress prevention in German micro- and small-sized enterprises - process evaluation results of an implementation study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1618. [PMID: 38886711 PMCID: PMC11184923 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19102-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Structural and behavioral interventions to manage work-related stress are effective in employees. Nonetheless, they have been implemented insufficiently, particularly in micro- and small-sized enterprises (MSE). Main barriers include a lack of knowledge and limited resources, which could potentially be overcome with simplified web-based alternatives for occupational stress prevention. However, there is a lack of implementation research about web-based prevention in realistic settings of MSE. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to evaluate the implementation process and success of an integrated web-based platform for occupational stress prevention ("System P") and to identify potential barriers for its uptake and use in MSE in Germany. METHODS This study with a mixed-methods approach investigates eight process-related outcomes in a quantitative part I (adoption, reach, penetration, fidelity/dose, costs, acceptability) and a qualitative part II (acceptability, appropriateness and feasibility). Part I has a pre-post design with two measurements (6 months apart) with 98 individual participants and part II consists of 12 semi-structured interviews with managers and intercorporate stakeholders. RESULTS Part I revealed shortcomings in the implementation process. Adoption/Reach: Despite extensive marketing efforts, less than 1% of the contacted MSE responded to the offer of System P. A total of 40 MSE registered, 24 of which, characterized by good psychosocial safety climate, adopted System P. Penetration: Within these 24 MSE, 15% of the employees used the system. Fidelity/Dose: 11 MSE started a psychosocial risk-assessment (PRA), and no MSE finished it. The stress-management training (SMT) was started by 25 users and completed by 8. COSTS The use of System P was free of charge, but the time required to engage with was an indirect cost. Part II added insights on the perception of the web-based intervention: Acceptance of System P by users and stakeholders was good and it was assessed as appropriate for MSE. Results for feasibility were mixed. CONCLUSIONS Although System P was generally perceived as useful and appropriate, only a small number of contacted MSE implemented it as intended. Prior experience and sensitivity for occupational (stress) prevention were mentioned as key facilitators, while (perceived) indirect costs were a key barrier. Enabling MSE to independently manage stress prevention online did not result in successful implementation. Increasing external support could be a solution. ⁺ FULL PROJECT NAME: "PragmatiKK - Pragmatische Lösungen für die Implementation von Maßnahmen zur Stressprävention in Kleinst- und Kleinbetrieben" (= Pragmatic solutions for the implementation of stress prevention interventions in micro and small-sized enterprises). TRIAL REGISTRATION German Register of Clinical Studies (DRKS) DRKS00026154, date of registration 2021-09-16.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Engels
- Department of Work and Organisational Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Open University of the Netherlands, Valkenburgerweg 177, Heerlen, 6419 AT, The Netherlands
| | - Louisa Scheepers
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Judith Engels
- Department of Work and Organisational Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Open University of the Netherlands, Valkenburgerweg 177, Heerlen, 6419 AT, The Netherlands
- Chair of Business Administration, in particular Work, Human Resource Management and Organization Studies, Faculty of Business Administration and Economics, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Leif Boß
- Department of Health Psychology and Applied Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Leuphana University Luneburg, Universitätsallee 1, 21335, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Rebekka Kuhlmann
- Chair of Business Administration, in particular Work, Human Resource Management and Organization Studies, Faculty of Business Administration and Economics, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Johanna Kuske
- Chair for Entrepreneurship and Management, Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Sciences, University of Cologne, Albertus‑Magnus‑Platz, 50923, Köln, Germany
| | - Lutz Lesener
- K12 Agentur für Kommunikation und Innovation GmbH, Schirmerstr. 76, 40211, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Valeria Pavlista
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Kira Schmidt-Stiedenroth
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Mathias Diebig
- Department of Work and Organisational Psychology, Faculty I - Psychology, Trier University, Universitätsring 15, 54296, Trier, Germany
| | - Sascha A Ruhle
- Department of Health Psychology and Applied Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Leuphana University Luneburg, Universitätsallee 1, 21335, Lüneburg, Germany
- Department of Human Resource Studies, Tilburg University, Prof. Cobbenhagenlaan 225, Tilburg, 5037 DB, The Netherlands
| | - Florian B Zapkau
- Institute for International Business, Department of Global Business and Trade, Vienna University of Economics and Business, Welthandelsplatz 1, Wien, 1020, Austria
| | - Peter Angerer
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jörg Hoewner
- K12 Agentur für Kommunikation und Innovation GmbH, Schirmerstr. 76, 40211, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Dirk Lehr
- Department of Health Psychology and Applied Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Leuphana University Luneburg, Universitätsallee 1, 21335, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Christian Schwens
- Chair for Entrepreneurship and Management, Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Sciences, University of Cologne, Albertus‑Magnus‑Platz, 50923, Köln, Germany
| | - Stefan Süß
- Chair of Business Administration, in particular Work, Human Resource Management and Organization Studies, Faculty of Business Administration and Economics, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Ines C Wulf
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
- German Social Accident Insurance Institution for the Administrative Sector, Markgrafenstraße 18, 10969, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nico Dragano
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Sasaki N, Shimazu T, Takeno H, Ogawa S, Sawada U, Tsutsumi A, Imamura K. Implementation of an internet-based stress management program in micro- and small-sized enterprises: a study protocol for a pre-post feasibility study of the effectiveness-implementation hybrid type 2 trial. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2024; 10:56. [PMID: 38581058 PMCID: PMC10996202 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-024-01481-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although internet-based stress management programs are proven effective in improving mental health among workers, micro- and small-sized enterprises (MSEs), lacking in occupational healthcare services, face challenges implementing them. To address this gap, this study will develop the program with stakeholders at MSEs to aim for real-world implementation. OBJECTIVES This paper describes a study protocol for a pre-post feasibility study of an effectiveness-implementation hybrid type 2 trial of text-based internet-based programs ("WellBe-LINE") in MSEs with less than 50 employees. This feasibility study primarily aims to evaluate trial methods for future effectiveness-implementation hybrid type 2 trials. METHODS For this study protocol, an internet- and text-based self-care intervention program using the LINE app (a popular message tool in Japan) will be prepared according to evidence-based psychoeducational topics. Based on our online survey findings, personalized algorithms will be implemented according to employees' gender, age, and psychological distress levels. A personalized program using a popular pre-existing text app is expected to reduce employees' burdens and be attractive to them, resulting in successful implementation outcomes and mental health benefits. A pre-post design feasibility study will be conducted on ten companies to evaluate trial methods (e.g., recruitment and procedures). The primary outcome will involve individual-level penetration, defined as the proportion of the number of employees who register for the program divided by the total number of invited employees at the company. The progression criterion to go next trial specifies that more than 50% of the recruited companies obtain 60% individual penetration, which is set based on the findings of the prior survey of employees at MSEs and of interviews of stakeholders involved in this study, and will be measured by LINE system. Finally, acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility will be measured using internet-based questionnaires and interviews. DISCUSSION This pre-post feasibility study for future effectiveness-implementation hybrid type 2 trials will provide in-depth knowledge about the successful implementation of text-based, semi-personalized, self-care mental health interventions in real-world settings using both quantitative and qualitative data. CONCLUSIONS This feasibility study will help validate the effectiveness of text-based interventions using a widely used social networking service (SNS) tool for employees in MSEs. TRIAL REGISTRATION UMIN clinical trial registration, UMIN000046960. Registered on February 21, 2022. https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000053570.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsu Sasaki
- Department of Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taichi Shimazu
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hajime Takeno
- Department of Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sayaka Ogawa
- Department of Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Utako Sawada
- Department of Psychiatric Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akizumi Tsutsumi
- Department of Public Health, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Kotaro Imamura
- Department of Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
- Department of Digital Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.
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Wagner A, Werners B, Pieper C, Eilerts AL, Seifried-Dübon T, Grot M, Junne F, Weltermann BM, Rieger MA, Rind E. Exploring Transfer Potentials of the IMPROVE job Intervention for Strengthening Workplace Health Management in Micro-, Small-, and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Germany: A Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4067. [PMID: 36901081 PMCID: PMC10002393 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Micro- and small-sized enterprises (MSE), and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SME) in Germany are often burdened with high levels of psychosocial stressors at work. The IMPROVEjob intervention was originally developed for general practice teams, and aims to promote job satisfaction and reduce psychosocial stressors in the context of workplace health management (WHM). This qualitative study identified challenges and transfer options regarding the transfer of the IMPROVEjob intervention to other MSE/SME settings. Based on previous study results, a comprehensive, qualitative inter- and transdisciplinary approach was developed and conducted between July 2020 and June 2021, also including single interviews and focus group discussion with eleven experts from MSE/SME settings. Data analysis was carried out using a rapid analysis approach. The experts discussed psychosocial topics and didactic formats of the original IMPROVEjob intervention. A lack of access to information on managing work-related psychosocial stressors and inadequate recognition of the importance of psychosocial stressors in the workplace among managers and employees, seemed to be the highest barriers regarding the transfer of the intervention into other MSE/SME settings. The transfer of the IMPROVEjob intervention to other MSE/SME settings requires an adapted intervention format, comprising targeted offers with easy access to information on managing work-related psychosocial stressors and improving WHM in MSE/SME settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Wagner
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, University Hospital Tübingen, Wilhelmstr. 27, 72074 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Brigitte Werners
- Operations Research, Institute of Management, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Claudia Pieper
- Institute for Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Anna-Lisa Eilerts
- Institute for Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Tanja Seifried-Dübon
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Osianderstr. 5, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Matthias Grot
- Operations Research, Institute of Management, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Florian Junne
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Osianderstr. 5, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Birgitta M. Weltermann
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus. 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Monika A. Rieger
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, University Hospital Tübingen, Wilhelmstr. 27, 72074 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Esther Rind
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, University Hospital Tübingen, Wilhelmstr. 27, 72074 Tübingen, Germany
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Pavlista V, Angerer P, Kuske J, Schwens C, Diebig AM. Exploring the Barriers to the Implementation of Psychosocial Risk Assessment in Micro- and Small-Sized Firms. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR ARBEITS-UND ORGANISATIONSPSYCHOLOGIE 2022. [DOI: 10.1026/0932-4089/a000398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Abstract. According to the legal requirements in many countries, companies should conduct psychosocial risk assessments (PRA). However, recent studies have demonstrated deficiencies in PRA implementation. Especially micro- and small-sized enterprises (MSE) are in arrears. We conducted two explorative studies to shed light on this topic: We recruited MSE and examined their reasons for participation ( N = 7) and nonparticipation ( N = 21) in a nonresponder survey. Further, we analyzed longitudinal data capturing the PRA process over 18 months in 15 MSE within a case study. The attitude that stress is an important issue was a major reason for participation. The reasons given for nonparticipation were lack of interest in PRA and lack of stress. High time commitment and support were needed for complete PRA implementation. The reasons given for termination included low resources and prioritization of PRA. The results indicate that interest and awareness of the relevance of psychosocial stress need to increase, and that approaches requiring fewer resources are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Pavlista
- Institute for Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Center for Health and Society, Medical Faculty, Heinrich HeineUniversity Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Peter Angerer
- Institute for Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Center for Health and Society, Medical Faculty, Heinrich HeineUniversity Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Johanna Kuske
- Professorship in Entrepreneurship and Management, Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Sciences, Universityof Cologne, Germany
| | - Christian Schwens
- Professorship in Entrepreneurship and Management, Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Sciences, Universityof Cologne, Germany
| | - and Mathias Diebig
- Institute for Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Center for Health and Society, Medical Faculty, Heinrich HeineUniversity Duesseldorf, Germany
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Scheepers L, Angerer P, Dragano N. Digitalisation in Craft Enterprises: Perceived Technostress, Readiness for Prevention and Countermeasures-A Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11349. [PMID: 36141621 PMCID: PMC9517128 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Digital technologies are increasingly used in the craft sector. Innovative technologies have several benefits for businesses but working with them can also induce negative feelings and stress. Data are lacking on perceived stress as well as the resulting strain and effects on health. However, information is needed about the principles of healthy working conditions in the context of digitalisation in the craft sector. To identify targeted starting points for preventive interventions to reduce technostress, we studied the perception of managers and employees of craft enterprises about digitalisation. METHOD 26 guideline-based interviews were conducted with managers and employees in the craft sector to assess their understanding of digitalisation and the perceived effects on their health. The data analysis was based on a structured qualitative content analysis. RESULTS In the administrative area, digitalisation is perceived as simplifying work, as information, for example, becomes more easily accessible. The actual craft work, however, is perceived as more psychologically stressful, e.g., due to technologically more complex heating systems. Likewise, an increased stress experience is described in connection with constant accessibility and workplace surveillance. To reduce the stress experience, clear prevention wishes such as digital breaks or more participation in decisions about digital technologies are stated. CONCLUSION Managers and employees in craft enterprises experience increasing psychological strain due to technostress. However, there is a willingness to take preventive interventions and a desire for more support in creating healthy working conditions in the context of digitalisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louisa Scheepers
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Faculty of Medicine, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Peter Angerer
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Faculty of Medicine, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Nico Dragano
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
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Metzler YA, Neuhaus CA, Taibi Y, Bellingrath S, Müller A. Redesigning Workplaces by Bridging the Gap Between Analysis and Action. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR ARBEITS-UND ORGANISATIONSPSYCHOLOGIE 2022. [DOI: 10.1026/0932-4089/a000393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Abstract. The step from hazard analysis to developing risk-mitigating measures is crucial to improving working conditions but has been scarcely researched to date. We qualitatively investigated protocols of analytical workshops in 33 organizational units that followed a prior hazard analysis with the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ, N = 7,257 employees). There was a high degree of agreement between the COPSOQ results and those of the workshops. However, no measures were developed for approximately one-third of the identified work-design problems. A content analysis of the measures revealed the complex interrelationship between the work characteristics, as minimizing one risk factor seems to go hand in hand with the need to redesign others as well. The measures were often simple, indicating either that minimizing psychosocial risks is rather easy, or that the participants within the workshops did not have the authority to develop more complex measures. We discuss the implications to support future psychosocial risk management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick A. Metzler
- Institute of Psychology, Faculty for Educational Sciences, University Duisburg-Essen, Germany
| | - Ciel Alena Neuhaus
- Institute of Psychology, Faculty for Educational Sciences, University Duisburg-Essen, Germany
| | - Yacine Taibi
- Institute of Psychology, Faculty for Educational Sciences, University Duisburg-Essen, Germany
| | - Silja Bellingrath
- Institute of Psychology, Faculty for Educational Sciences, University Duisburg-Essen, Germany
| | - Andreas Müller
- Institute of Psychology, Faculty for Educational Sciences, University Duisburg-Essen, Germany
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Engels M, Boß L, Engels J, Kuhlmann R, Kuske J, Lepper S, Lesener L, Pavlista V, Diebig M, Lunau T, Ruhle SA, Zapkau FB, Angerer P, Hoewner J, Lehr D, Schwens C, Süß S, Wulf IC, Dragano N. Facilitating stress prevention in micro and small-sized enterprises: protocol for a mixed method study to evaluate the effectiveness and implementation process of targeted web-based interventions. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:591. [PMID: 35346127 PMCID: PMC8959270 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-12921-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Workplace-related stress is a major risk factor for mental and physical health problems and related sickness absence and productivity loss. Despite evidence regarding the effectiveness of different workplace-based interventions, the implementation of stress prevention interventions is rare, especially in micro and small-sized enterprises (MSE) with fewer than 50 employees. The joint research project “PragmatiKK”+ aims to identify and address the specific barriers to the implementation of stress prevention interventions in MSE. This study protocol describes a mixed method study design to evaluate the effectiveness of adapted stress prevention interventions and the implementation process via an integrated web-based platform (“System P”) specifically targeted at MSE. Methods First, we develop a web-based intervention, which accounts for the specific working conditions in MSE and addresses stress prevention at a structural and behavioral level. Second, we use common methods of implementation research to perform an effect and process evaluation. We analyze the effectiveness of the web-based stress prevention interventions by comparing depressive symptoms at baseline and follow-up (after 6 months and 12 months). Indicators for a successful implementation process include acceptability, adoption, feasibility, reach, dose, and fidelity, which we will measure with quantitative web-based questionnaires and qualitative interviews. We will also analyze the accumulated usage data from the web-based platform. Discussion Collecting data on the implementation process and the effectiveness of a web-based intervention will help to identify and overcome common barriers to stress prevention in MSE. This can improve the mental health of employees in MSE, which constitute more than 90% of all enterprises in Germany. + Full Project Name: „PragmatiKK - Pragmatische Lösungen für die Implementation von Maßnahmen zur Stressprävention in Kleinst- und Kleinbetrieben “(= Pragmatic solutions for the implementation of stress prevention interventions in micro and small-sized enterprises). Trial registration German Register of Clinical Studies (DRKS): DRKS00026154, date of registration: 2021-09-16. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-12921-7.
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Benning FE, van Oostrom SH, van Nassau F, Schaap R, Anema JR, Proper KI. The Implementation of Preventive Health Measures in Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises-A Combined Quantitative/Qualitative Study of Its Determinants from the Perspective of Enterprise Representatives. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:3904. [PMID: 35409587 PMCID: PMC8997761 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19073904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
The workplace is an ideal environment for promoting workers' health. Nevertheless, preventive health measures are insufficiently implemented, especially in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with up to 250 employees. The aim of this study was to investigate determinants for the implementation of measures to prevent musculoskeletal and mental health disorders from the perspective of enterprise representatives in Dutch SMEs. An online survey was completed by 79 SME representatives (e.g., owners, HR professionals and occupational health and safety officers) in the cleaning, care, construction and transport sectors. In addition, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 enterprise representatives. The interview transcripts were analyzed using an inductive approach. Survey data showed that the focus of prevention efforts by SMEs is on improving working conditions and complying with legally required occupational health requirements, while lifestyle measures are rarely implemented. The determinants of implementation according to enterprise representatives were associated with 10 distinct themes. These were (1) available resources (both finances and staff), (2) complexity of implementation of measures, (3) awareness, (4) knowledge and expertise, (5) availability of time, (6) employer and worker commitment, (7) workers' openness for measures, (8) communication, (9) workers' trust and autonomy and (10) integration in organizational policy. These findings can serve as a support for developing strategies for implementing preventive health measures in SMEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Friederike E. Benning
- Center for Nutrition, Prevention and Health Services, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, 3721 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands; (F.E.B.); (S.H.v.O.)
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (F.v.N.); (R.S.); (J.R.A.)
| | - Sandra H. van Oostrom
- Center for Nutrition, Prevention and Health Services, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, 3721 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands; (F.E.B.); (S.H.v.O.)
| | - Femke van Nassau
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (F.v.N.); (R.S.); (J.R.A.)
| | - Rosanne Schaap
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (F.v.N.); (R.S.); (J.R.A.)
| | - Johannes R. Anema
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (F.v.N.); (R.S.); (J.R.A.)
| | - Karin I. Proper
- Center for Nutrition, Prevention and Health Services, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, 3721 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands; (F.E.B.); (S.H.v.O.)
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (F.v.N.); (R.S.); (J.R.A.)
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Wagner A, Tsarouha E, Ög E, Preiser C, Rieger MA, Rind E. Work-related psychosocial demands related to work organization in small sized companies (SMEs) providing health-oriented services in Germany - a qualitative analysis. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:390. [PMID: 35209852 PMCID: PMC8866918 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-12700-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) represent the majority of businesses in the EU. Little is known about psychosocial demands faced by company owners, managers, and employees in SMEs, especially in the health and service sector. The current study aimed to identify which psychosocial demands related to work organization are reported by managers and employees in the health and service sector, and if managers and employees differ in their perspective on these psychosocial demands. METHODS We conducted nine single interviews and two focus group discussions with seven company owners and managers as well as eleven employees from six different German companies between January and February 2020. The psychosocial factors of the psychosocial risk assessment of the Joint German Occupational Safety and Health Strategy (GDA) served as a framework for data collection and analysis. The interview material was analysed using Mayring's method of qualitative content analysis. RESULTS We identified four prevailing work-related psychosocial demands related to work organization among managers and employees: (1) possibilities and time for recovery after work, (2) communication and cooperation, (3) work intensity, and (4) interruptions, and prioritization. According to the managers, they were confronted with a lack of possibilities and time for recovery after work. They report issues related to inadequate communication and cooperation affecting the entire company team, and also face high work intensity and frequent interruptions and prioritization. Employees reported a clearer division between work and private life. However, they also face periods of high work intensity, frequent interruptions and the need for prioritization. CONCLUSION Managers and employees in SMEs in the health and service sector would benefit from evidence-based and evaluated tailored interventions and approaches for improved work organization. Further studies are needed to support managers and employees in SMEs in the health and service sector in facing and handling work-related psychosocial demands like lack of possibilities and time for recovery after work, high work intensity or frequent interruptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Wagner
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, University Hospital of Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Elena Tsarouha
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, University Hospital of Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Eylem Ög
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, University Hospital of Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Christine Preiser
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, University Hospital of Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Monika A. Rieger
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, University Hospital of Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Esther Rind
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, University Hospital of Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074 Tübingen, Germany
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