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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Ellen MacEachen, PhD¹, Jessica Polzer, PhD², and Judy Clarke, MA¹. (1) Institute for Work & Health, 481 University Avenue, Suite 800, Toronto, ON M5G 2E9, Canada, 416-927-2027 Ext. 2136, emaceachen@iwh.on.ca, (2) Public Health Sciences, University of Toronto, 155 College St., Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada

In our growing knowledge-based economy, corporations are changing how they manage production (of skills, knowledge, and ideas rather than widgets) and how they organize their firms. Fixed rules have been replaced by goals and targets. This means that workers have a great deal of flexibility about how to manage their time and space. Conversely, it also means that senior managers in corporations have a limited interest in process, that is, what it takes to get a job done. Based on a qualitative in-depth interview study with senior managers at thirty one Ontario computer service and software firms, we argue that new forms of work organization deflect attention from consideration of occupational health needs and issues. A lack of focus on process leaves responsibility to the worker for how work is done, including what strain may accompany work. Also, when work is flexibly accomplished at varied places and times (such as at home) it is difficult for workplace decision-makers to distinguish between personal and work-related health. We found that senior managers were not oriented to consideration of occupational health, and that organizations in the computer services sector regularly ‘opt out' of workers' compensation insurance coverage. This talk will draw on senior manager experience in the computer services and software sector to consider the implications of modern forms of work organization for occupational health practice and policy.

Learning Objectives:

• Recognise the difference between standard work organisation and emerging forms of work.
• Assess ways that work flexibility can minimise workplace focus on health.
• Discuss implications of new forms of work for occupational health practice and policy.

Keywords: Challenges and Opportunities, Occupational Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No