Perceived Factors Influencing Blue-Collar Workers' Participation in Worksite Health Promotion Programs in Freight...

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Public Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Blue-collar workers in freight transport face high chronic disease risks due to unhealthy lifestyles.
• Participation in worksite health promotion programs (WHPPs) is lower in this demographic compared to others.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify factors influencing blue-collar workers' participation in WHPPs.
• To inform strategies for improving engagement in health promotion initiatives for this population.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with 32 blue-collar freight transport workers in the Netherlands.
• Interview guide informed by the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) and Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behavior (COM-B) model.
• Analysis combined framework and thematic approaches to identify participation determinants.

Main Results:

• Nine key themes emerged: lack of awareness, unclear program expectations, health prioritization, need for feedback/support, readiness to change, self-dependency preference, desire for practical/fun/group programs, employer support, and environmental norms.
• Identified barriers include unawareness, unclear expectations, and environmental factors not supporting healthy lifestyles.
• Facilitators include practical support, employer involvement, and programs that are engaging and communal.

Conclusions:

• Enhancing blue-collar worker participation in WHPPs requires addressing awareness, program clarity, and environmental influences.
• Tailoring programs to be practical, engaging, and supported by employers is essential.
• Future interventions should focus on creating supportive work environments and clear communication about program benefits.