Track: Human Factors and Ergonomics

Abstract

During these trying times, the non-medical related ones, security guards, and janitors working in hospitals were also
vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus. The researchers identified factors that influenced the current mental health of
these vulnerable workers and provided the basis for adequate intervention of mental health problems. The study's
respondents were janitors and security guards in the healthcare industry within Metro Manila. The significance of
the variables age, gender, household size, employment status, number of working hours per day, number of minutes
of break time per day, and monthly income on the total symptom severity score was assessed. The researchers
gathered data concerning the demographic factors, and PTSD Checklist Civilian Version (PCL-C) was utilized to
obtain the Total Symptom Severity Score. Multiple Linear Regression Analysis, Pearson’s Correlation Analysis, and
Point-Biserial Correlation Analysis were used to determine significant variables. This study suggested a significant
association between the number of working hours with the total severity score of the respondents among the seven
demographic variables. The data generated revealed that the total symptom severity score of the respondents
increased for every hour of working. The researchers recommended that 8 hours every day cause significant positive
mental health results and well-being benefits. They should avoid working 48 hours or more every week. The
company should invest in science-based mental health intervention and implement social activities to prevent mental
health declination.