Working From Home During a Pandemic Investigation of the Impact of COVID-19 on Employee Health and Productivity

Objective: To determine ergonomic problems when working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic with regard to musculoskeletal pain, sleep conditions, physical activity, resting, equipment, and productivity. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, office workers who switched to working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic participated in an online survey (n = 194). The data were interpreted using descriptive and multivariate regression analysis. Results: A significant increase in back pain was revealed (P < 0.001). Significant weight gain was observed (P < 0.001) connected to a decrease in physical activity and an increase in the consumption of junk food. Despite the negative health impact, participants self-reported an increase in productivity. Conclusion: The self-reported productivity was higher during the working from home, but a declining trend in employee health can be observed including low back pain and weight gain.

Automated summary

During working from home amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, complaints of increased back pain and weight gain were reported, associated with decreased physical activity and increased consumption of junk food. Although self-reported productivity showed an increase, there was a decline in employee health including back pain and weight gain.