Life style, work environment factors and work ability in different occupations

The aim of this study was to investigate the work ability of Polish workers in different occupations and to evaluate occupational and extra-occupational factors influencing work ability in those workers. Work Ability Index (WAI) was served as a tool for work ability assessment and European Foundation for Improvement of Living and Working Conditions Questionnaire for selected occupational and non-occupational assessment. Statistical analysis was performed by the mean of ANOVA tests. The WAI results varied from 16 to 49, the mean was 41.33, SD 5.25. Excellent WAI was found in 43.81% of workers, good in 43.81%, moderate in 16.14% and poor in 1.20%. Among all analyzed factors, statistically significant differences in WAI were found (in the whole studied group) for the following factors: assistance from colleagues, possibility of taking a break, additional paid job, painful or tiring position, carrying or moving heavy loads and possibility of taking a course. For workers, who have the possibility to get assistance from colleagues, possibility of taking a break, additional paid job or possibility of taking a course, WAI results were statistically significantly higher. For those, who work in painful or tiring position, carry or move heavy loads, WAI results were statistically significantly lower. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.