8220470 Occupational strain among employees followed by a French intercompany occupational health service in 2024

<h3>Objective</h3> This study focuses on occupational strain, a key element in national health and work plans in France, aiming at preserving employee health by preventing harmful exposures. The objective is to gather data on employees’ perceptions of their occupational strain, protective strategies, and career outlook. <h3>Material and Methods</h3> A cross-sectional study was conducted from February 5 to May 27, 2024, using an online questionnaire accessed via a QR code, among employees followed by a French intercompany occupational health and prevention service. The data, analyzed using SPSS®, focused on the physical, psychological, and relational challenges employees face at work, the links between health and working conditions, and difficulties in sustaining work obligations on the long-term. <h3>Results</h3> A total of 2,121 responses were collected, with an average age of 40 years and 52% women. Key findings (p&lt;0.001) include: A higher proportion of employees reporting physical fatigue as they age, from 27% in those under 26 to 48% in those over 56. Increased stress levels among women, supervisors, and managers, while manual and clerical workers reported more physical strains. Employees facing demanding work situations reported poorer health and struggled to balance work life balance. Those who believe they cannot remain in their job for more than five years often lack support from colleagues or management, rely on personal strategies, and face demanding physical, mental, or interpersonal situations. <h3>Conclusion</h3> The study indicates that occupational strain starts early in one’s career and worsens overtime. It highlights the importance of early prevention through individual monitoring of work-related health indicators. Multidisciplinary teams of the intercompany occupational health and prevention service, in collaboration with employers and social partners, can implement targeted primary prevention actions to support employee health and employment longevity.