Effect of Workstation Type on the Relationship Between Fatigue, Physical Activity, Stress, and Sleep

J Occup Environ Med. 2021 Mar 1;63(3):e103-e110. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000002108.

Abstract

Objective: This study examined office workstation types' impact on the relationship between fatigue and three health metrics: physical activity, stress, and sleep quality.

Methods: Data from 225 office workers were collected for perceived fatigue, perceived sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI]), physiological stress response (standard deviation of heart rate variability [HRV]), and physical activity (total activity in minutes) during three consecutive workdays. Stress and physical activity were measured using chest-worn sensors. Workers were then categorized as tired or not-tired based on the median of the fatigue rating.

Results: Among tired workers, open-bench seating workers had increased physical activity, improved sleep quality, and reduced stress compared with workers in private offices and cubicles.

Conclusions: Office workstation types influence physical activity and levels of stress during work hours, which in turn affect sleep quality.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Exercise*
  • Fatigue / epidemiology
  • Heart Rate
  • Humans
  • Sleep*
  • Stress, Physiological