Protecting the Frontline: How Paid Sick Leave Access Influences Perceived Risk, Job Stress, and Job Satisfaction Among Home Service Workers.

Abstract

This study examined whether access to paid sick leave (PSL) for COVID-19 symptoms is associated with lower perceived risk, reduced job stress, and greater job satisfaction. A cross-sectional survey of 1643 in-home service workers was conducted (response rate: 83%). Path analysis assessed the effects of sick leave type (paid, unpaid, no access, unsure) on perceived risk, job stress, and satisfaction, controlling for demographics and occupation. Compared to workers with PSL, those with unpaid leave (β = 0.087) and no access (β = 0.080) reported higher perceived risk, indirectly associated with lower job satisfaction via increased job stress. Workers with no access (β = -0.060) and unsure access (β = -0.057) also showed a direct association with lower job satisfaction. PSL access may support in-home service workers' mental health and job satisfaction.