The Role of the Work Environment in the Relationship Between Shiftwork and Sickness Absence

Abstract

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the role of four team-level work environment factors as potential mediators and moderators of the relationship between shiftwork and sickness absence.

Methods In a longitudinal cohort study, we analyze data obtained from 11,842 employees in a large Norwegian hospital using generalized structural equation model estimations.

Results The results did not support a moderation hypothesis. The results did support partial mediation, showing a significant indirect positive relationship between shiftwork and short-term sickness absence via participation, a significant indirect positive relationship between shiftwork and long-term sickness absence via control, and a significant indirect negative relationship between shiftwork and long-term sickness absence via commitment.

Conclusions These results support that differences in available work environment resources may partially explain the increased level of sickness absence among shiftworkers.