Fatigue in construction workers:A systematic review of causes, evaluation methods, and interventions

Abstract

Construction is a highly hazardous industry characterized by numerous occupational fatalities, injuries, and illnesses, with fatigue identified as a major causal factor. To prevent construction accident fatalities and injuries, extensive research efforts have been directed toward fatigue among construction workers. However, no systematic review has been reported regarding the identification, evaluation, control, and management of fatigue among construction workers. To elucidate the state-of-the-art research, uncover related issues, and propose potential improvements, this study presents a systematic review of fatigue-related research on construction workers, focusing on the causes of fatigue, evaluation methods, and related interventions. Based on a mixed-review approach combining systematic review and bibliometric analysis, this study examines the evolution of research themes and methods related to worker fatigue and highlights key findings. The analysis reveals various causes of worker fatigue, including work-related, environmental, and personal factors. Additionally, this study highlights subjective and objective practical methods for measuring, monitoring, and predicting worker fatigue and describes interventions to alleviate fatigue, from individual- to industry-level measures. Moreover, the relevant research challenges are identified, and future research directions are recommended. The findings of this study can promote further research on construction worker fatigue and contribute to the enhancement of occupational health and safety in the construction industry.