Workplace based interventions which apply the stages of change framework to their design: A scoping review

Objective

This scoping review summarises the amount and types of evidence available for workplace-based interventions that include the Stages of Change (SOC) framework in their design.

Methods

Seven electronic databases were searched for studies of workplace-based interventions that included SOC in their design. Studies were classified according to how SOC was incorporated into the intervention, the intervention target (individual or the organisation), which SOC measurement tools were used, and outcome measures.

Results

Thirty-six articles met the inclusion criteria. Four focused on organisational level ergonomics changes to work systems, the work environment, and/or work practices. The remaining three organisationally focused articles aimed to influence behaviours such as nutrition choices and smoking cessation, by modifying workplace factors such as the display of information and environmental changes.

The remaining 29 articles focused on modifying individual behaviours, primarily through the provision of information and/or coaching to participants. None of the included studies targeted managers or other workplace decision makers.

Conclusions

Four articles used SOC to implement ergonomics changes. Opportunities exist for further research evaluating how SOC could support organisational change, with particular regard to implementation of ergonomists’ advice and recommendations.