Health Hazards in Online Organizations: A Case Study about Two Business Organizations in Pakistan

Online organizations usually have a more stressful working style where the employees have
to sit in front of computers for long hours. This sit-and-stare culture coupled with a lack of
organizational focus on the employees’ physical health and well-being may lead to multiple health
issues. Taking data from two online business organizations in Pakistan through observations and
interviews; this study investigates the working culture and environment, common issues pertaining to
the employees’ physical health, and the responses of the management. It was found that the working
conditions were mostly stressful and detrimental to physical health with cramped spaces, nonergonomic
furniture, and a stressful and tightly-controlled environment. The participants believed that
they were treated like expendable commodities. Eyes, back, neck, knee and stomach issues, fatigue,
and obesity were reported to be the most common health issues. The study gives practical
recommendations which can improve not only the employees’ physical well-being, but also their
organizational attachment, efficiency, and productivity.