Abstract
Work fatigue (WF) is a general or specific exhaustion (physical, mental, or emotional dimensions) in workers generated by job, social, or personal conditions. WF results in slower reactions and reduced capacities, among others, and can contribute to occupational accidents, health problems, and reduced productivity. This work seeks to confirm whether variables previously described associated with WF are found in Chilean workers.The 3D-WFI was self-administered in a sample of 250 workers of a security company (24% female; average age = 42 years) who also answered about personal and working conditions. Thus, correlations and mean comparisons were performed. The Ethics Committee of the University approved this project. Higher fatigue was observed in workers between 30 and 49 years, with no differences by sex. The personal variables associated with WF are a decreased perception of health (primarily mental), lower sleep quality and quantity, longer commuting times, and greater household chores. Conversely, less fatigue is associated with fruit consumption, social support, better work and company satisfaction, and higher well-being. Working conditions related to more significant fatigue are increased workload, noise and heat, task monotony, caring for others, emotional labor, and a higher concentration demand. Also, workers with more significant physical fatigue reported more previous accidents at work. Convergences with previous findings are found. Early results suggest relationships between WF and the quality of life, working conditions, and workers’ safety. Coping measures, programs on work-family conciliation, promoting health and quality of life, and flexible work schedules are proposed.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Public Health Policies and Practices
KEYWORDS
FATIGUE
