Reducing sitting at work: process evaluation of the SMArT Work (Stand More At Work) intervention

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Behavioral Science
• Ergonomics

Background:

• Office workers experience excessive occupational sitting time.
• The Stand More At Work (SMArT Work) intervention was designed to mitigate this.
• A cluster randomized controlled trial confirmed its efficacy in reducing sitting time.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a process evaluation of the SMArT Work intervention.
• To identify key components that facilitated or hindered behavior change.
• To understand participant experiences with the intervention and evaluation measures.

Main Methods:

• Utilized questionnaire data from intervention (n=58 at 6 months, n=55 at 12 months) and control (n=37 at 12 months) groups.
• Collected feedback on intervention components: education, height-adjustable desk, Darma cushion, behavior feedback, coaching, and goal-setting diaries.
• Conducted focus groups with participants from both arms to explore experiences in depth.

Main Results:

• Height-adjustable workstations were positively received and frequently used (62% daily).
• Educational seminars significantly increased awareness of sedentary behavior risks (92%) and motivated change.
• Behavioral feedback and research team support were effective; Darma cushion and diaries were less so.
• Reported benefits included reduced pain, improved cognition, increased productivity, and enhanced well-being.

Conclusions:

• The educational seminar, height-adjustable workstation, behavioral feedback, and regular staff contact were crucial for facilitating behavior change.
• These elements collectively contributed to the intervention's success in reducing occupational sitting time.