Modeling the effect of heat on job burnout and mental workload in the oil industry: A confirmatory factor analysis approach
Shahram Vosoughi, Ensieh Sadat Alamshah, Iraj Alimohammadi, Jamileh Abolghasemi Talkhooncheh, Behzad SouriBackground
Workers in tropical and subtropical regions are exposed not only to hot and humid weather but also to occupational stressors that can exacerbate heat stress, leading to physiological, cognitive, and psychological consequences.
Objective
This study investigated the relationship between thermal stress, mental workload, and occupational burnout among oil industry employees during summer work shifts.
Methods
A total of 234 male employees were selected through convenience sampling. Participants completed demographic questionnaires, the Maslach Burnout Inventory, and the NASA-TLX mental workload questionnaire. Heat stress and environmental variables were measured with a WBGT device in accordance with the ISO 7243:2017 standard for assessing occupational heat stress. Measurements were conducted under indoor and outdoor conditions. Data analysis included Spearman correlation, independent t-tests, ANOVA, and confirmatory factor analysis to explore direct and indirect relationships between workload, burnout, and their dimensions.
Results
The average WBGT index exceeded ISO occupational exposure limits in 80.77% of cases. Machine operators, control room engineers, firefighters, and maintenance personnel were most frequently exposed to excessive heat. A significant negative relationship was found between work experience and emotional exhaustion among employees within the ISO-recommended exposure range. Cognitive workload, particularly time pressure and mental demand, was strongly associated with occupational burnout.
Conclusion
Heat stress indirectly influenced occupational burnout through increased cognitive workload. Greater mental pressure corresponded with higher scores across other workload subscales and burnout dimensions. These findings underscore the need for preventive strategies and improved work–rest schedules in hot industrial environments.