Psychosocial risks and occupational health: Fatigue and sleep disturbances among aviation professionals

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between exposure to psychosocial risk factors at work, fatigue, and sleep quality among civil aviation professionals. Psychosocial risk factors such as excessive workload, lack of control over tasks, job insecurity, and inadequate social support are prevalent in high-demand environments like civil aviation, where constant vigilance and rapid decision-making are crucial. The research involved 200 participants, including pilots and flight attendants, who completed questionnaires measuring psychosocial stressors, sleepiness, and fatigue. Results indicated significant associations between role conflict and ambiguity, lack of social support, work/family conflict, and the pressure of responsibility with increased fatigue and sleep disturbances. Gender differences were noted, with women experiencing higher levels of work/family conflict. The study emphasizes the need for organizational strategies to mitigate these psychosocial stressors by enhancing role clarity, providing social support, fostering work-life balance, and managing job responsibilities to improve health outcomes and operational safety in aviation. Future research should consider longitudinal and diverse studies to explore these dynamics further and test intervention efficacy.