O. Asatiani, SOM, IntlSOS, Apache, UK

Background

Long-term sickness absence (LTSA) remains a major burden on the UK economy. Physical activity (PA) has therapeutic effects in multiple diseases, including those causing LTSA. Return to work (RTW) from LTSA is influenced by workers’ beliefs and attitudes about their illness and treatment.

Aims

To investigate differences between workers in the oil and maritime industries in attitudes and beliefs regarding the role of PA in RTW following LTSA.

Methods

Cross-sectional questionnaire survey of workforce and occupational physicians.

Results

691 questionnaires were completed by the workforce participants and 50 by OH doctors. No difference in attitudes and beliefs between workers in the oil and maritime industries was found. Workforce and medical professionals’ knowledge of current recommendations on PA is poor.

Conclusions

Changing the perceptions of employees on LTSA regarding the importance of PA may facilitate earlier RTW. Industry operators, governing bodies, and occupational health service providers have a role in promoting knowledge of the benefit of PA in assisting RTW after LTSA. This is particularly relevant for doctors working in occupational medicine. Measures to increase awareness of the importance of PA in promoting recovery and RTW from LTSA are required. Larger sample size studies to confirm this study’s findings are recommended.

References:

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2. Black, C and Frost D. (2011). Health at work – an independent review of sickness absence.
3. Department for work & Pensions. Fitness for work: the Government response to “Health at work – an independent review of sickness absence.” January 2013.
4. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Workplace health: long-term sickness absence and capability to work. NICE guideline [NG146]. November 2019.

Workplace health: long-term sickness absence and capability to work (nice.org.uk). (last accessed 21 January 2022)

5. Department of Health and Social Care. UK Chief Medical Officers Physical Activity Guidelines. 7 September 2019. UK Chief Medical Officers' Physical Activity Guidelines (publishing.service.gov.uk) (last accessed 21 January 2022)