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The association between psychosocial factors and indoor air quality (IAQ) with mental health well-being among workers at Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and University Veterinary Hospital in UPM

Mohamad Azim, Nur Waznah (2024) The association between psychosocial factors and indoor air quality (IAQ) with mental health well-being among workers at Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and University Veterinary Hospital in UPM. [Project Paper] (Submitted)

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Abstract

Limited research has explored the combined influence of indoor air quality and psychosocial factors on mental health within veterinary settings. This study addresses this gap by investigating these associations among workers at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and University Veterinary Hospital (UVH) at UPM. Using a cross-sectional design and surveys, we examined potential relationships between IAQ parameters, psychosocial factors, and mental health outcomes including burnout, stress, and depressive symptoms. Our findings contribute to the development of interventions to improve veterinary workplace environments and safeguard worker well-being, ultimately fostering a healthier and more sustainable workforce. Objective: This research aims to assess the association between psychosocial factors and indoor air quality on mental health well-being among workers at administrative office in Faculty of veterinary and University Veterinary Hospital at UPM. Method: This is a cross-sectional study conducted in Faculty of Veterinary, University Putra Malaysia. survey data were collected from 89 workers in administrative office of faculty and staff in University Veterinary Hospitals including medical staff, administration staff and supporting staff through convenience sampling where few departments were chosen such pharmacy, administrative, pet care, large/exotics/avian animals and surgery and census sampling within the department including all the workers in the department, where the survey were distributed to the workers. This study used a validated questionnaire (COPSOQ III) to assess five key psychosocial factors at work demands, control, social support, work-individual interface, and health and well-being. These factors were measured through specific subscales, including ones directly evaluating stress, somatic stress, cognitive stress, and depressive symptoms. Indoor air quality (IAQ) was assessed using calibrated instruments at five representative locations to measure air velocity, temperature, relative humidity, carbon monoxide (CO), and carbon dioxide (CO2). Limited research has explored the combined influence of indoor air quality and psychosocial factors on mental health within veterinary settings. This study addresses this gap by investigating these associations among workers at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and University Veterinary Hospital (UVH) at UPM. Using a cross-sectional design and surveys, we examined potential relationships between IAQ parameters, psycho-social factors, and mental health outcomes including burnout, stress, and depressive symptoms. Our findings contribute to the development of interventions to improve veterinary workplace environments and safeguard worker well-being, ultimately fostering a healthier and more sustainable workforce. Result: Majority of the respondents were female aged 18-49 and with work experience ranging from less than 5 years to 15 years. Despite no significant links between indoor air quality and mental health, over 80% of veterinary workers reported moderate to high levels of burnout, stress, and depressive symptoms. Over 60% experienced moderate to high burnout and stress, while nearly 75% reported similar levels for both cognitive stress and depressive symptoms, under-scoring the substantial mental health burden faced by these workers. The measured indoor air quality parameters in the veterinary facility fell within acceptable ranges for office workplaces according to relevant guidelines. Average air velocity was moderate (0.47-1.47 m/s), temperature remained comfortable (20-24°C), and relative humidity levels were slightly elevated but still within recommended limits (61-72%rh). Notably, carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations remained very low across all locations (19.55-23.65 ppm), indicating adequate ventilation and minimal occupant density indicating IAQ are not significantly associated. The result showed significant positive correlations (r = 0.216-0.599, p < 0.05) between various psychosocial factors and mental health outcomes in veterinary workers. Burnout, stress (including somatic and cognitive), and depressive symptoms were all strongly associated with quantitative demand, emotional demand, lack of influence at work, and work-life conflict. Additionally, role clarity and job insecurity showed associations with specific mental health outcomes. Conclusion: The IAQ complied with the PEL and did not demonstrate significant associations with mental health, Psychosocial factors emerged as key predictors of mental health. Emotional demand, quantitative demand, work-life conflict, and lack of influence at work were significantly associated with burnout, stress, and depressive symptoms. These findings highlight the importance of addressing workplace psychosocial factors to promote well-being among veterinary professionals. Interventions aimed at reducing job demands, promoting work-life balance, and enhancing employee autonomy can contribute to a healthier and more resilient veterinary workforce. Keywords: Psychosocial Factors, Indoor Air Quality, Mental Health Well-Being, Veterinary

Item Type: Project Paper
Faculty: Faculty of Medicine and Health Science
Depositing User: Ms Norafizah Radzuan
Date Deposited: 28 Apr 2025 08:25
Last Modified: 28 Apr 2025 08:25
URI: http://psaspb.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/2363

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