Perceived Workplace Safety is Not Associated with Hypertension among U.S. Adults

Background: Work-related factors such as negative interactions with supervisors and low job decision latitude have been shown to be associated with risk of hypertension. However, there is limited research on the association between workplace safety and hypertension. Therefore, we examined associations of self-perceived level of workplace safety and safety as a priority for management with hypertension. Methods: We used cross-sectional 2015 National Health Interview Survey data on employed participants aged 18+ years (n=5,728). To assess safety, participants were asked “Overall, how safe do you think your workplace is?” and their level of agreement with the statement, "The health and safety of workers is a high priority with management where I work." Hypertension was assessed based on whether they have been told by a doctor that they had hypertension. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate the associations between workplace safety measures and hypertension. Models were adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, body mass index, smoking status, insurance coverage status, and shift work. Results: In adjusted models, the associations between self-perceived levels of safety of the workplace and hypertension were not statistically significant. Additionally, reported agreement with the statement that “health and safety are a priority for management” was not significantly associated with hypertension. Conclusion: In conclusion, there was no association between workplace safety and hypertension. Future research should consider additional workplace factors, such as the industries and occupations of respondents in addition to other measures of safety (e.g., number of accidents) in relation to hypertension risk.