Multidimensional Fatigue Assessment of High-Altitude Electrical Workers: A Comprehensive Analysis Based on Physiological and Psychological Indicators : Electrical Workers: A Comprehensive Analysis.

Abstract

High-altitude electrical work is a high-risk and physically demanding occupation that has received limited empirical investigation, particularly regarding the physiological and psychological fatigue experienced during operations. This study provides an initial empirical exploration into fatigue among high-altitude electrical workers by examining the relationship between subjective fatigue perception and multiple physiological indicators in realistic working environments. Thirty professional high-altitude electrical workers participated in field-based measurements conducted during routine summer operations. A combination of subjective (Fatigue Severity Scale) and objective indicators-such as LF/HF, grip strength, reaction time, and critical flicker frequency-was used to assess fatigue. The experimental protocol was designed to closely mirror actual work conditions, and over 1,200 valid data points were collected across repeated measures. Spearman correlation and multiple regression analyses were employed to evaluate the association between physiological indicators and subjective fatigue ratings. Significant correlations were observed between subjective fatigue levels and several physiological indicators, particularly LF/HF (β = -0.523, p < 0.001), grip strength (β = -1.076, p < 0.001), CFF (β = -4.138, p < 0.001), and RT (β = 2.984, p < 0.001). These findings suggest these indicators may be sensitive to short-term fatigue fluctuations under operational stress. In contrast, ETCO₂ did not show a significant relationship with subjective fatigue, likely due to its physiological stability and limited responsiveness in non-clinical field conditions. This study offers preliminary evidence supporting the feasibility of combining multiple physiological and psychological indicators for fatigue monitoring in high-altitude electrical work. The results underscore the multifaceted nature of fatigue and highlight the importance of context-specific evaluation frameworks. Future studies should further refine these indicators and expand the sample scope to enhance generalizability and practical applicability in occupational health management.