The association between worksite physical environment and employee nutrition, and physical activity behavior and weight status

J Occup Environ Med. 2014 Jul;56(7):779-84. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000000180.

Abstract

Objective: To explore the relationship between worksite physical environment and employee dietary intake, physical activity behavior, and weight status.

Methods: Two trained research assistants completed audits (Checklist of Health Promotion Environments at Worksites) at each worksite (n = 28). Employees (n = 6261) completed a brief health survey before participation in a weight loss program.

Results: Employees' access to outdoor areas was directly associated with lower body mass index (BMI), whereas access to workout facilities within a worksite was associated with higher BMI. The presence of a cafeteria and fewer vending machines was directly associated with better eating habits. Better eating habits and meeting physical activity recommendations were both related to lower BMI.

Conclusions: Selected environmental factors in worksites were significantly associated with employee behaviors and weight status, providing additional intervention targets to change the worksite environment and promote employee weight loss.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Body Weight*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Environment
  • Exercise / physiology*
  • Feeding Behavior / psychology*
  • Female
  • Health Behavior*
  • Health Surveys
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Motor Activity*
  • Nutritional Status*
  • Workplace / psychology*