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Productivity and Health: Alternative Productivity Estimates Using Physical Activity

Author

Listed:
  • Akogun, Oladele

    (Modibbo Adama University of Technology)

  • Dillon, Andrew

    (Michigan State University)

  • Friedman, Jed

    (World Bank)

  • Prasann, Ashesh

    (World Bank)

  • Serneels, Pieter

    (University of East Anglia)

Abstract

This paper investigates an alternative proxy for individual worker productivity in physical work settings: a direct measure of physical activity using an accelerometer. First, the paper compares worker labor outcomes, such as labor supply and daily productivity obtained from firm personnel data, with physical activity; they are strongly related. Second, the paper investigates the effect of a health intervention on physical activity, using a temporally randomized offer of malaria testing and treatment. Workers who are offered this program reallocate time from lower intensity activities in favor of higher intensity activities when they work.

Suggested Citation

  • Akogun, Oladele & Dillon, Andrew & Friedman, Jed & Prasann, Ashesh & Serneels, Pieter, 2017. "Productivity and Health: Alternative Productivity Estimates Using Physical Activity," IZA Discussion Papers 11115, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp11115
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    malaria; productivity measurement; labor productivity; field experiment;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • I12 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health Behavior
    • J22 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Time Allocation and Labor Supply
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • O12 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Microeconomic Analyses of Economic Development

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