Work Redesign for the 21st Century

Abstract

Work plays a central role in shaping health, yet many efforts to improve worker well-being focus on changing individual behaviors rather than the conditions of work itself. To address this gap, the authors built on existing frameworks and occupational health research to propose a model of work redesign updated for the 21st century, focused on reshaping working conditions that are root causes of stress-related health problems. The model identifies strategies such as increasing worker schedule control and voice, moderating job demands, and strengthening caregiving support, teamwork, and coordination. It also highlights how public policy can encourage and sustain these approaches, making work redesign a more viable path to improving worker safety, health, and well-being.