ABSTRACT
Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the developmental pathways of work capacity among higher education employees during the enforced remote work caused by COVID-19, and how physical ergonomics at home, and organizational factors predicts different pathways. Material and methods: A longitudinal web-survey was conducted with four measurement points (April 2020, to February 2021). Employees who responded to all surveys were included (n = 678). Of the respondents 71 % were women, 45 % teachers or research staff, 44% supporting staff and 11 % hired students. Perceived work capacity was measured similarly in all four times. Work stress, musculoskeletal pain, functionality of the home for work, and satisfaction with activities and support of the employer were measured at baseline. Latent class growth curve analysis was used to identify individuals into distinct trajectories. Multinomial logistic regression was used to determine the associations between individual, ergonomic, and organizational factors (predictors) at baseline and profile membership (outcome). Results and discussion: The work capacity for 75% of the employees was stable during remote working, 17 % had a favorable trend (very good-stable or increasing) of the work capacity and 8% had non-favorable (poor-stable or decreasing). Non-favorable work capacity was associated with poor physical workstation at home, dissatisfaction with the support from the organization, high work stress and musculoskeletal pain.