Analysis of Workload and Occupational Safety Risks for Healthcare Workers Post-COVID-19 Pandemic: An Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Approach
Keywords:
Workload, Healthcare Workers, Post-COVID-19 PandemicAbstract
Purpose: This study aims to analyze the workload and occupational health and safety (OHS) risks experienced by healthcare workers in the post-COVID-19 pandemic era and to examine the role of organizational support in mitigating these risks.
Subjects and Methods: This study employed a qualitative research design involving 10 healthcare workers, including nurses and medical staff, who were actively working in healthcare facilities after the pandemic period. Participants were selected using purposive sampling to ensure relevant experience related to workload and occupational safety issues. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis, including data familiarization, coding, categorization, and theme development to identify key patterns related to workload conditions and occupational risks.
Results: The findings indicate that healthcare workers continue to experience high workloads due to increased patient demand, delayed medical services during the pandemic, and shortages of healthcare personnel. These conditions often lead to overtime work, physical fatigue, and mental exhaustion. The study also found that healthcare workers face persistent occupational safety risks, including biological exposure to infectious diseases and ergonomic problems such as musculoskeletal strain. High workload and time pressure can reduce adherence to safety procedures, increasing the risk of workplace incidents. Organizational support, including adequate staffing, safety training, clear protocols, and balanced work schedules, was identified as an important factor in reducing these risks.
Conclusions: Effective workload management and strengthened OHS systems are essential to protect healthcare workers and ensure sustainable healthcare services in the post-pandemic era.
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