Cost-Effectiveness and Return-on-Investment of a Participatory Ergonomics Intervention Among Childcare Workers: An Economic Evaluation in a Randomized Controlled Trial

To evaluate the cost-effectiveness and return-on-investment (ROI) of 20-week ergonomic intervention to reduce physical exertion at work compared with usual-practice among childcare workers. METHODS: One hundred ninety workers from 16 institutions were cluster-(institute)-randomized to intervention (n = 96) and usual-practice (n = 94) group. The intervention group participated in three workshops to develop/implement action plans improving ergonomic conditions. The rating of physical exertion (RPE) was measured at baseline and 20-weeks. Employer-perspective-based costs of intervention, absenteeism, and presenteeism were estimated. RESULTS: Although statistically non-significant, one-unit reduction in RPE was associated with saving of 592 EUR/worker. Per-EUR invested by the employer was associated with 1.6 EUR (95% CI: –3.1; 6.5) return in the intervention compared with usual practice. CONCLUSION: The intervention tended to gain monetary benefit for the employer. The results should be replicated in larger populations for improved precision of economic evaluation estimates. Trial registration: ISRCTN10928313