8278108 Work-related risk factors of insomnia: evidence from population-based panel study

<h3>Objectives</h3> While many studies have demonstrated the association between work environment and insomnia, comprehensive research examining a wide range of work-related risk factors across the general working population remains limited. This study aimed to explore work-related risk factors for insomnia among Korean workers using population-based panel data. <h3>Material and Methods</h3> Data were obtained from the Korean Work, Sleep, and Health Study (2022–2024), comprising 8,976 respondents. Insomnia was assessed using the Insomnia Severity Index. Occupational risk factors–including long working hours, shift work, occupational stress, emotional labor, physical/chemical hazards, and ergonomic strain, were assessed using structured questionnaires. Generalized estimating equation models were applied with adjustments for sociodemographic factors. <h3>Results</h3> Working more than 52 hours per week was associated with higher odds of insomnia (OR=1.341,95% CI:1.130–1.591), whereas shift work was not. High occupational stress showed a strong association with insomnia (OR=3.258,95% CI:2.925–3.628), particularly in relation to poor physical environment, high job demand, and high job insecurity. High-risk emotional laborers had increased odds of insomnia compared to low-risk groups (OR=2.633,95% CI:2.219–3.124), especially with emotional dissonance and organizational monitoring. Exposure to physical or chemical hazards was associated with insomnia (OR=1.832,95% CI:1.669–2.010), with notable risks including noise, high temperatures, solvent vapors, and environmental smoking. Ergonomic risk exposures were also associated with insomnia (OR=1.502,95% CI:1.371–1.645), with motorcycle riding, kneeling or squatting posture, and repetitive arm movements showing strong associations. Similar patterns were observed across sex, age, and occupational groups. <h3>Conclusion</h3> This study highlights that diverse work-related risk factors contribute to insomnia in workers. Strategies to improve occupational conditions–including reducing work stressors and mitigating physical, chemical, and ergonomic hazards–may be essential components of sleep health promotion. Incorporating occupational history into clinical assessments of insomnia could aid prevention. <h3>Funding</h3> This research was financially supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF-2022R1F1A1066498).