Barriers and facilitators of workplace visual comfort from the perspective of hospital staff: a qualitative study

The present study was conducted to identify the barriers and facilitators of Workplace Visual Comfort (WVC) as perceived by hospital personnel. While adequate lighting is recognized as essential for the execution of medical tasks by healthcare workers, achieving optimal and sufficient lighting conditions often encounters numerous difficulties. This qualitative research carried out between May and October 2023. The main participants included 18 staff members from a hospital, and the data were gathered through semi-structured individual interviews, which continued until saturation was achieved. The data were further analyzed using conventional content analysis. Data analysis was performed using MaxQDA 10 software. The data analysis revealed three themes, i.e., (i) Lack of managerial attention to the work environment and standard lighting system design, (ii) Visual annoyance caused by unnatural inappropriate lighting system combined with a high workload, and (iii) A sense of visual comfort based on proper lighting, under eight categories and 23 sub-categories. The findings of the study indicated that WVC faced various obstacles. As a result, it is recommended that hospital administrators pay greater attention to lighting conditions and work on removing structural impediments in this area. Additionally, assisting hospital personnel in improving lighting conditions and ensuring the provision and supervision of key facilitators for WVC (considering workplace standards) can ultimately enhance satisfaction and quality of care services.