Study finds widespread physical and mental strain at work

Workers across Tyrol, South Tyrol and Trentino face significant physical and psychological pressures, according to a study reported by ORF. The research was conducted by the Tyrol Chamber of Labour, the South Tyrol Institute for Employment Promotion and the Trentino Labour Agency, based on 2,320 interviews.

Strong noise was the most frequently reported physical risk: 27% of respondents were exposed to it for more than a quarter of their working time. High temperatures affected 26%, and low temperatures 22%. Workers in agriculture, manufacturing and craft occupations were particularly exposed.

The most common physical demand was repeatedly moving the arms and hands, reported by 63% of respondents. Another 46% said they worked in painful or tiring postures. Repetitive arm and hand movements occurred across almost all occupational groups. Sitting continuously was reported by 42%, especially among workers in transport and logistics and in office jobs.

For 40% of respondents, the pace of work exceeded the strain threshold defined by Eurofound. Customer demands and colleagues’ instructions were the main reasons. A notable level of pressure from deadlines was reported by 38%.

Other psychological pressures included having to hide one’s feelings, particularly in financial services; dealing with emotionally upsetting situations, especially in health and social care; and handling angry people, particularly in retail.

Combined physical and psychological strain was reported most often by plant and machine operators, at 60%. The figure was 42% among craft and agricultural workers and 36% among elementary occupations. By sector, combined strain was reported by 36% of workers in manufacturing, 34% in construction and 32% each in transport and logistics and in health and social care.

Tyrol Chamber of Labour President Erwin Zangerl called the findings a wake-up call. He said employers must ensure effective prevention, health-conscious workplaces and adequate recovery periods, while reducing physical and psychological pressures. “Responsibility lies with employers, because health protection cannot be voluntary; it is an obligation,” he said.