Predicting the work ability of security guards at a university in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand.

OBJECTIVES: The number of security guards in universities, has significantly increased. This study aimed to predict work ability of university security guards.

METHODS: A cross-sectional study of 97 university security guards in Thailand was performed. Data were collected through interviews using a questionnaire covering social demographics, behavioral health, and work ability. The data were analyzed using Chi-squared tests and logistic regression models.

RESULT: The average Work Ability Index (WAI) score was 38.1 ± 3.8, with 65.0% of participants scoring 'good'. Social support significantly influenced WAI ( p = 0.004). Those with insufficient support were 4.3 times more likely to show poor workability. Mental health also impacted WAI ( p = 0.006); those with poor mental health were 4.7 times at risk. Additionally, work experience affected WAI ( p = 0.039). Those with over five years of experience showed reduced work ability compared to their less-experienced counterparts (AOR = 0.4; 95% CI [0.20, 0.96]).

CONCLUSIONS: Supervisors should provide social support and offer rewards and commendations to enhance employees' abilities, health behaviors, and management of underlying diseases. Additionally, organizations should prioritize health and safety in workplace to ensure that their employees are healthier and perform their tasks more effectively.