Evaluation of booster breaks in the workplace

J Occup Environ Med. 2014 May;56(5):529-34. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000000144.

Abstract

Objective: This study elicited information regarding benefits of and barriers to participation in health-promoting work breaks, known as Booster Breaks, from participants with extensive experience (6 months to 1 year) with these types of breaks.

Methods: On the basis of the story path method of inquiry, data were collected regarding past, present, and future time frames during extensive face-to-face interviews. Group consensus processes identified themes.

Results: The top-ranked benefit theme was experiencing positive feelings, followed by improved health and sense of team camaraderie. The three barrier themes were time constraints/interruption of work flow, lack of interest, and absence of organizational support.

Conclusions: As decision makers plan and implement health-promoting work breaks such as Booster Breaks, these findings indicate the benefits to emphasize and the barriers to counteract. Management support to sustain engagement is a priority.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Consensus
  • Female
  • Health Promotion
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Occupational Health Services
  • Occupational Health*
  • Qualitative Research
  • Relaxation / psychology*
  • Southwestern United States
  • Workplace*
  • Young Adult