Factors Related to Work Ability of Workers in Establishments, Rayong Province

Abstract

Background: Work ability is defined as workers’ current ability in relation to work demand, health, and mental resources. In Thailand there have been no studies about work ability in different work types. Therefore, this study collected data from many workers in different work types for the purpose of finding the prevalence and related factors of work ability among workers in various establishments in Rayong Province based on their job types or job descriptions.

Objectives: The main purpose of this study was to examine work ability among workers in various establishments in Rayong Province and the related factors based on their job types or job descriptions.

Materials and methods: Using data from 162 workers collected in 2017-2018 in the Department of Occupational Health, Rayong Hospital, the data were analyzed by frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, independent samples t-testing, and One-Way ANOVA to examine work ability among workers in various establishments in Rayong Province and the related factors.

Results: Most workers in Rayong Province had very good work ability (67.9 %), followed by good work ability (29.6 %). The proportion of very good work ability was highest in physical-based job types (75.9 %) and mechanic/skilled tradesmen job descriptions (83.9%). From this study, having medical conditions was significantly and independently associated with work ability.

Conclusion: Most workers in Rayong Province had very good work ability and having medical conditions was associated with work ability. The workers in the 41-55 years old age group had a lower proportion of very good work ability than younger age groups. This study suggests that establishments should maintain work ability, especially in aging workers, by using health promotion and should have periodic work ability assessments for workers in order to work effectively.