Law Enforcement Fitness Policies in Relation to Job Injuries and Absenteeism

Law Enforcement Fitness Policies in Relation to Job Injuries and Absenteeism by Marlana L. Hancock MA, Sam Houston State University, 1997 BA, University of Northern Iowa, 1994 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Public Policy and Administration Walden University August 2017 Abstract After employment, job-related fitness requirements vary for law enforcement agencies within North Carolina. Police academies mandate specific job-related fitness requirements for recruits as a condition of graduation. Once employed, little is known about why some law enforcement agencies in North Carolina have physical fitness policies and others do not, particularly when injury rates and healthcare costs continue toAfter employment, job-related fitness requirements vary for law enforcement agencies within North Carolina. Police academies mandate specific job-related fitness requirements for recruits as a condition of graduation. Once employed, little is known about why some law enforcement agencies in North Carolina have physical fitness policies and others do not, particularly when injury rates and healthcare costs continue to rise. To better understand this inconsistency, the current study used a mixed methods approach to examine 6 midsized law enforcement agencies in North Carolina with varying fitness policies. The policy of each agency, along with OSHA work-related injuries and absenteeism reports, were examined quantitatively to determine if a relationship existed between policy and injuries and absenteeism. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post-hoc tests found a greater statistical significance between policy levels and injury rates than between policy level and absenteeism rates. An interview with agency personnel qualitatively identified common themed responses to determine whether the utility function of rational choice theory explained fitness policy implementation. It was difficult to determine whether the utilitarian component was the reason behind policy decisions, but data-driven results seemed to serve as an agent of fitness policy decision making. The results contributed to the limited academic literature on this topic although further research recommendations were made. The findings advocate for better officer health and fitness standards to reduce the risk of on-the-job injuries and absenteeism, and reduce health care costs to all involved. Law Enforcement Fitness Policies in Relation to Job Injuries and Absenteeism by Marlana L. Hancock MA, Sam Houston State University, 1997 BA, University of Northern Iowa, 1994 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Public Policy and Administration Walden University August 2017 Dedication This study is dedicated to the men and women in blue who put their lives on the line every time they put on the uniform. My prayer is that you stay healthy and steadfast to serve your community with integrity and honor. And to my beloved Ken, I will love you always. Acknowledgments Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths (Prov. 3: 5-6, KJV). Much has been done, but there is also much to do. A sincere thank you is not enough for those who have encouraged and helped me along this path, my mom and my dad, sisters Cindy, Debbie, Pam, and Mandy. Manders, you are my inspiration. Dr. Nancy McCurry, you gave me the courage to continue my education and in your retirement, you will be deeply missed. My co-worker and boss, Neil Weatherly, thank you for your understanding and flexibility in allowing me to occasionally use work time for school obligations. And Pastor Shook, thank you for being a blessing in my life. Dr. Stallo, I have enjoyed our journey and appreciate the support, guidance, and encouragement when times got a bit stressful. Your leadership has helped me gain confidence to move on in the academic world. Dr. Worch, your time, feedback, and genuine interest is more than I could ask for in completing this process. Dr. Mosko, I enjoyed attending many of your writing seminar sessions and participating in the topic discussions. Your input has been enlightening and I appreciate your constructive feedback and input. Carey, your editing and suggestions were most welcomed and helpful, thank you so much for your time and writing expertise. Last, but certainly not least, thank you so much to the law enforcement agencies who agreed to participate in my study. The time and resources that were asked of you will be remembered and is much appreciated. I hope your worthy contributions have been demonstrated in this research.