Citation

Ognianova VM, Dalbokova DL, Stanchev V. Int. J. Ind. Ergonomics 1998; 21(3-4): 283-291.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1998, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This study examined stress states experienced by thermoelectric operators at work under a fast rotating 12-hour shift system, time-on-shift effects in their manifestation and the manner in which these states may be moderated by individual differences in personality related to circadian typology and physical and mental health, as measured by the standard shiftwork index (SSI) scales. The observed stress states are characterized mostly by increased symptoms of distractibility and sleepiness and low irritability. Distractibility increased and alertness abruptly fell after 03 am in the nigth shift. Moderate extent of occurrence of stress states symptoms throughout the shifts and few psychosomatic complaints were found, indicating the operators were able to maintain vigilance and to cope with shiftwork. The correlations with the circadian typology variables show their important role as modifiers of stress states and low alertness at night. Correlations found between personal outcomes in terms of psychosomatic problems and chronic fatigue, and distractibility and irritability disclose an interaction between chronic and acute effects of the shiftwork stressors, that could have, with advancing in age, important consequences for the operators' health and work safety.Relevance to industryStress states -- transient negative states, that may have important consequences for behavioural reliability and safety, occur under vigilant behaviour demands and unusual periods of work, e.g. operators' monitoring task of continuous processes, performed under conditions of night and shiftwork. Individual differences, related to sleep disturbances and circadian rhythms, health problems and chronic fatigue play an important role in developing and coping with the stress states.