Prevalence and factors affecting occupational and non-occupational stress among industrial workers, a descriptive cross sectional study from a single industrial unit in South India

Abstract

Background: Stress related to work is a complex process that influences both the worker’s health and his productivity. Identification of the stressors may elicit psychological, behavioural or physical response in the work environment.

Methods: A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted in a single thermal power unit located in Tamilnadu state. A standard and validated questionnaire by O'Donnell MP, was used to assess the occupational and non-occupational stress.

Results: A total of 126 participants were included in the study. Psychological stress was the most common form of stress reported by 32.5% of the subjects. The prevalence of occupational stress was 9.5% in study population. Physical stress and family stress were reported by 13.5% and 12.7% of the subjects respectively. The highest odds of stress were observed in 30 to 39-year age group, when compared to youngest age group (20 to 29 years). Strong positive association was observed between the psychological stress and hypertension in study population.

Conclusions: Psychological stress was the most common form of stress reported in industrial workers. Male gender, middle age groups, current use of smoking or alcohol is strongly associated with occupational stress.