O-088 Shifting From an Individual to an Organizational Perspective in Work Environment Management – A Process Evaluation of a Six-Year Intervention Program Within the Swedish Public Sector

Introduction Working systematically with the organizational and psychosocial work environment entails several challenges. This study aims to evaluate the process of a six-year organizational-level intervention program where workplaces could apply for funds to implement preventive measures. Methods The process was studied using a mixed-method approach combining qualitative document and content analyses based on process documentation (n=135), quantitative descriptive analyses of submitted applications with decisions (n=621), and interviews with internal occupational health services professionals (n=9). Results The project management expressed concerns with sufficient competence and resources among stakeholders and participating workplaces, and role conflicts and ambiguities between the program and everyday operations. Consequently, the application process was developed over time using the knowledge gained from previous years. The proportion of granted intervention measures on an organizational level increased throughout the years from 39% in 2017 to 89% in 2022. Discussion A change in perspective, from an individual to an organizational perspective, was seen among the program management group and the internal occupational health services responsible for implementing most of the granted intervention measures. The changes in the application process were believed to be the main contributor to the change in the proportion of granted measures on an organizational level. Conclusion Results indicate that a long-term organizational-level workplace intervention program may be used, by the employer, as a tool for shifting from an individual- to an organizational perspective in the work environment management. However, additional measures on multiple levels need to be implemented to secure a sustainable shift in perspective within the organization.