Assessment of differences in occupational and leisure physical activity between male and female warehouse workers.

Background : Studies considering differences between male and female workers in both occupational physical activity (OPA) and leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) have been scarce. The aim of this study was to describe OPA and LTPA and work organization in on-line retail warehousing and consider the extent to which differences exist between male and female workers.

Methods: OPA and LTPA were assessed objectively over five consecutive days on 57 workers (24 females and 33 males) at three warehouses and semi-structured focus-group interviews conducted with 49 workers (15 groups). Analysis of data was performed within each warehouse since the extent of digitalization and subsequently the amount of walking required differed between warehouses as did the proportion of male and female workers. Accelerometer data were analysed using AcitiPass algorithms (Uppsala University) to determine variables at work and during leisure including: number of steps and percent time in sit, stand, walk and active categories.

Results: In general, warehousing involved low proportions of time sitting (x̄ =23%), but high standing (x̄ = 52%) and walking (x̄=23%) times, and a high step count (x̄ = 13 143). At the two warehouses with some production automation, men and women OPA did not differ significantly; however, at leisure women sat less than men (54% vs 62% – warehouse 1; 58% vs 67% warehouse 2). At the third warehouse (minimal automation), interview data suggested gendered division of seated work tasks, and women sat less (14% vs 21%) and stood more than men (53% vs 47%); women also stood more at leisure (29% vs 22%).

Conclusions/Implications: Results suggest similar OPA between men and women in warehouses with some extent of automation, even if the specific tasks performed may differ. Despite similar OPA, LTPA differences were found, with women sitting less: this may represent decreased opportunity for recovery.