Razi Journal of Medical Sciences

Background: Physical activity in the workplace has significant effects on different aspects of employee’s health. It can be effective in increasing the productivity and decreasing staff’s absents and turn-over. Physical activity is affected by multiple factors. The purpose of current research is systematic review of individual, environmental and organizational determinants of physical activity in the workplace.

Methods: Relevant articles searched in electronic databases including Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, Sportdiscus, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar from 2000 to 2013. Studies which were qualified based on inclusion criteria were entered to review. Quality assessment of studies was done by using two tools including New Castle-Ottawa Scale and Quality Assessment Tools for Quantitative Studies Tool. In next stage, required information was extracted from the studies and results of the studies were reported narratively.

Results: 17 articles were eligible to include in review. Study Quality assessment showed that 18% (n: 3) of studies were categorized as high, 59% (n: 10) moderate and 23% (n: 4) low quality. Individual determinants were demographic, psychological characteristics and lack of time. Environmental determinants were social-cultural, physical and economical environments. Related organizational factors were work time and shift, job type, facilities, financial and environmental support.

Conclusion: Individual, environmental and organizational factors play a role in staff’s physical activity. Identifying these factors can be used in health promotion interventions and programs in the workplace.