Schlaf und Arbeitsleben : Ergebnisse einer Studie der Bundesarbeitskammer Österreich (BAK-Studie) (Schwerpunkt)

BackgroundDisturbed and nonrestorative sleep negatively affects working ability and tolerance of stress and is one of the risk factors for burnout. Other consequences are increased daytime fatigue and impairments of attention and concentration, which contribute to work-related accidents.MethodsThe current investigation is based on a survey conducted by the Austrian Federal Chamber of Labor in 4,214 employees (BAK Study). Problems in initiating and maintaining sleep are analyzed with respect to work-related fatigue, general health, working ability, and work satisfaction.ResultsAbout 23% of the sample complained of difficulties in initiating and maintaining sleep occurring several times per week, which had significant negative effects on ratings of general health, working ability, and work-related fatigue. Sleep problems were also significantly correlated with age and gender, but not with a person’s job, branch of work, marital status, and working satisfaction.ConclusionDisturbed sleep is an important factor of daytime fatigue and has negative effects on general health and work ability. This is a major public health issue that should receive greather attention.