Health promotion for blue-collar workers
A case study in a Hungarian manufacturing company
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14267/VEZTUD.2026.02.02Keywords:
workplace health, workplace health promotion, blue-collar worker, health behaviour, qualitative researchAbstract
There is little research on health behaviour and health promotion among blue-collar workers. This study aims to present the challenges and opportunities for health promotion among blue-collar workers through the example of a manufacturing company in Hungary. The research involved semi-structured in-depth interviews with seven senior and mid-level managers to identify barriers to programme implementation and future opportunities for health promotion initiatives. The qualitative data analysis identified six main areas: 1. importance of health promotion, commitment of leadership, 2. health status of blue-collar workers, 3. health behaviour and health literacy of workers, 4. specific aspects related to the nature of work, 5. communication, 6. prioritized areas for health promotion. Based on our findings, we formulated recommendations for the company, covering the two phases of the HAPA-model, active employee involvement, and review of shift work. The study also identifies five examples of good practice that other companies can consider.
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