Occupational stress and associated factors among industrial workers across industries in Markazi Province Iran
Abstract
Occupational stress is an important psychosocial hazard influencing the physical and mental health of employees. This study assessed the levels and determinants of occupational stress among industrial workers in Markazi Province, Iran one of the country’s major industrial regions. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2023–2024 among 1,102 employees from four sectors: metal, construction, chemical, and food–pharmaceutical industries. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering demographic, occupational, socioeconomic, and lifestyle variables, along with the validated HSE Occupational Stress Indicator Tool (35 items, seven subscales). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS v26 and R version 4.5.0, including descriptive tests, ANOVA, and multiple regression analysis ( p < 0.05). The final analysis included 1,102 participants (mean age 39 ± 7.5 years; 73% male). The mean total HSE score was 120.19 ± 14.11, with significant differences observed across industrial sectors ( p = 0.022). Several HSE dimensions also differed significantly between industries, particularly role, communication, control, and demand. Significant differences were observed across sectors ( p < 0.001), with chemical and construction workers reporting higher demands and lower control compared to the metal and food sectors. The multiple regression model explained 11.6% of the variance in stress scores (R 2 = 0.116). Income satisfaction was negatively associated with HSE scores (B = − 0.186, p < 0.001), inadequate job control (B = 0.225, p < 0.001). Occupational stress was generally low but varied across industries. Findings indicate that stress is shaped mainly by organizational and economic factors such as workload, job control, and fairness of rewards rather than individual characteristics. Strengthening participation, welfare, and supportive supervision, alongside periodic stress monitoring and mental health programs, can effectively enhance resilience and productivity among industrial workers.