Scoping review protocol on shift work variables associated with the health, safety, productivity, and well-being of land, air, and maritime transport workers in cargo and passenger services

<jats:p>Introduction Shift work refers to labor arrangements that fall outside the standard daytime schedule and is associated with various health, safety, and productivity concerns. Numerous studies have linked shift work to sleep disturbances, chronic diseases, reduced well-being, and impaired performance. However, there is no consensus in the literature regarding which specific shift variables should be assessed, hindering comparability across studies and the formulation of evidence-based recommendations.

Objective To explore which shift work variables have been investigated in the scientific literature in relation to the health, productivity, safety, and well-being of workers in land, air, and maritime transport, in both freight and passenger services

Methods A scoping review will be conducted following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines and the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. The literature search will be performed in PubMed and Scopus, including studies published in English and Spanish between 2015 and March 2025. Two reviewers will independently screen titles, abstracts, and full texts using Rayyan, and extract relevant data using a predefined data charting form. Methodological quality will be assessed using validated tools such as the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) or the JBI critical appraisal checklists. A narrative synthesis will be used to summarize and map the key findings.

Expected results This review aims to enhance conceptual and methodological clarity in the study of shift work by providing a structured synthesis of the variables investigated in relation to key occupational outcomes. Findings will be relevant for researchers, occupational health professionals, and policymakers seeking to design more targeted and effective interventions.</jats:p>