Workload and workplace fatigue

This project involves collecting and analysing qualitative data.

Workplace fatigue is a state of impaired functioning which reduces health and safety at work. Although there is no consensus definition of workplace fatigue, it is widely accepted that there are physiological contributors related to sleep loss and circadian disruption, as well as other contributors, such as workload, work environment, and social and emotional stressors. Workload may be considered as the effort required to carry out a particular task and has mental and physical components. The workload experienced by an individual is multi-dimensional, resulting from an interaction between task-related aspects (task duration, difficulty, complexity, and intensity), time pressure, and person-related aspects (skill level, experience, and internal state).

We are interested in exploring relationships between workload, emotional demand/stressors, and workplace fatigue among health workers. Our previous research has highlighted that workload and emotional stressors are important but often overlooked aspects of work among health workers.

This project would suit a Master’s student who is completing a 120-credit thesis and is interested in conducting a qualitative research project involving interviews and/or focus groups with health workers. This important project will provide substantial insights into how workload, emotion and workplace fatigue are inter-related and will inform the development of (a) appropriate strategies for managing these aspects of work and (b) subsequent research projects investigating these concepts more widely in the health sector.

Primary supervisor: Dr Karyn O'Keeffe