Exploring the Impact of Ergonomics on Employees’ Nonattendance Behaviors: The Mediating Role of Work Engagement

Our study aims to offer a research model that investigates the role of work engagement as a mediator in the relationship between ergonomics and absenteeism, and tardiness behaviors among employees. This research focuses on three main points: (a) the direct effect of ergonomics on work engagement, absenteeism, and tardiness; (b) the effect of work engagement on absenteeism and tardiness; and (c) the mediating role of work engagement in these relationships. The aforementioned links were evaluated using data collected from staff of 4- and 5-star hotels in Kurdistan Region/Iraq. The findings reveal that ergonomics has a strong positive effect on work engagement, and a significant negative effect on both absenteeism and tardiness. Moreover, work engagement is negatively related to absenteeism and tardiness, further mediating the effect of work engagement between ergonomic and those nonattendance behaviors. Hotel managers should periodically review and enhance ergonomic practices to ensure alignment with employee needs. Establishing feedback mechanisms can help employees communicate concerns or suggest improvements, fostering a supportive work environment. Implementing ergonomic interventions as part of broader employee engagement strategies can lead to reduced absenteeism, increased punctuality, and improved overall productivity.