Telework Practices and Health Risks of Teleworkers: Survey Findings From Taiwan After the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Abstract

The aim of the study was to explore telework distributions after the COVID-19 pandemic, autonomy in work arrangements, and health experiences of teleworkers in Taiwan. A survey was conducted in March 2024 among 383 teleworkers. A comparison group of 750 age- and gender-matched conventional employees was extracted from a national survey. Regression analyses examined the associations of teleworking status with the risks of eye strain, musculoskeletal pain, poor self-rated health, and mental distress. A total of 54% of teleworkers started teleworking by their supervisors' arrangement, and 49% reported being digitally monitored. More than 90% of them were satisfied with teleworking arrangements, but they had significantly higher odds for eye strain (odds ratio [OR] = 3.18), musculoskeletal discomfort (OR = 1.58), and mental distress (OR = 1.67) than general employees. Teleworkers have high job satisfaction but reported higher ergonomic-related and mental health risks.