Association of working time control with health-related productivity loss and work engagement: Evidence from the 5th Korean Work, Sleep, and Health Study

Abstract

Objective: This study examined the association of working time control (WTC)-the degree of employee autonomy over work hours-with health-related productivity loss (HRPL) and work engagement among Korean wageworkers.

Methods: Data were drawn from 4,612 wage workers in the 2024 Korean Work, Sleep, and Health Study. HRPL and work engagement were measured using validated instruments. Generalized linear models and logistic regression were used to assess associations, controlling for demographic and occupational covariates.

Results: Lower WTC was linked to higher HRPL and decreased work engagement. A slight HRPL decrease in the lowest control group appeared driven by reduced absenteeism. Men, younger workers, and non-shift workers were more vulnerable to low WTC.

Conclusions: WTC is significantly associated with both productivity and work engagement. Enhancing employee autonomy in scheduling may improve health and organizational outcomes in workplaces.

Keywords: Absenteeism; Health-related productivity loss; Presenteeism; Work engagement; Working time control.