Quality of work life and professional ethics among occupational health professionals: a social exchange theory perspective

Abstract Background Despite the increasing complexity of ethical challenges in occupational health settings, limited attention has been paid to the ethical conduct of occupational health professionals themselves. This study examined how Quality of Work Life is associated with professional ethics among occupational health professionals, guided by Social Exchange Theory. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 200 occupational health practitioners in East Azerbaijan. Data were analysed using SPSS and SmartPLS, involving Pearson correlation, t-tests, ANOVA, and structural equation modelling. Measurement models were validated for reliability, convergent and discriminant validity, and common method bias. Results The findings showed a statistically significant but modest positive association between the total Quality of Work Life score and the total Professional Ethics score ( r = 0.281, p < 0.01). The strongest domain-level correlation was observed between Human Capabilities Development and Professional Autonomy ( r = 0.330, p < 0.01). Human Capabilities Development, Safe Work Environment, and Social Integration were positively associated with Professional Responsibility, Professional Autonomy, and Trustworthiness. However, the model explained only 21.4% of the variance in Professional Responsibility, 18.6% in Professional Autonomy, and 8.2% in Trustworthiness, indicating modest explanatory capacity and particularly limited explanatory power for Trustworthiness. Conclusion The findings suggest that Quality of Work Life may be a relevant organizational factor associated with professional ethics in occupational health practice. The study highlights the potential importance of developmental and relational aspects of work in supporting moral responsibility, while acknowledging that causal conclusions cannot be drawn from the cross-sectional design. These findings are especially relevant for policymaking in developing countries where ethical conduct is central to workplace safety and public health credibility.