A Qualitative Analysis of Workers Perceptions on the Role of Management in Promoting Health Behavior, Informed by the COM-B Model

J Occup Environ Med. 2024 Nov 1;66(11):919-923. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000003198. Epub 2024 Aug 1.

Abstract

Background: The primary objective of this study was to explore the viewpoints held by employees at a pharmaceutical manufacturing workplace in a middle-income country regarding management's role in promoting health behaviors in the workplace.

Methods: This study used transcripts of focus group discussion from an original study that investigated employee perceptions of factors associated with healthy behaviors among South African pharmaceutical manufacturing factory workers.

Results: Participants felt that workplace managers could improve capability through health promotion strategies, supportive leadership, and promoting a culture of health. They could provide opportunity through employee engagement programs and resources, and physical activity opportunities were specifically identified.

Conclusions: This study demonstrates that managers in a middle-income country have the potential to contribute to workplace health in a range of ways that include addressing capability, opportunity, and motivation of their workers.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Drug Industry
  • Female
  • Focus Groups*
  • Health Behavior*
  • Health Promotion* / methods
  • Humans
  • Leadership
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Occupational Health*
  • Organizational Culture
  • Qualitative Research*
  • South Africa
  • Workplace* / psychology