Fatigue and Mental Health in Venezuelan Mine Workers

Why does it matter?

Extended underground shifts, machinery noise and economic uncertainty lead to:

  • Chronic fatigue
  • PTSD-like symptoms
  • Sleep disorders
  • Higher risk of depression & anxiety

Inpsasel’s 2024 survey showed 60 % of miners with severe burnout signs.


Key fatigue & stress drivers

DriverHealth impact
Shifts >12 hSlower reaction time
Continuous vibrationMusculoskeletal pain, insomnia
Poor lightingCircadian disruption
Social isolationDepression, anxiety

Prevention & care strategies

1. Smart shift rotation

  • 7 × 7 work-rest cycles
  • ≥12 h off between night shifts

2. Active breaks

  • 10-minute stretch breaks every 2 h
  • Rest zones with daylight & ventilation

3. In-house mental-health programs

  • On-call psychologists 24/7 via tele-health
  • Mindfulness & stress-management workshops

4. Lighting & noise control

  • Full-spectrum LED in main drifts
  • Custom ear protection (<85 dB)

5. Tech-based fatigue monitoring

  • Wearables tracking HR & HRV
  • Auto-alerts on drowsiness detection

Business pay-offs

Stronger ESG appeal for global investors

30 % fewer human-error accidents (CVG 2026 forecast)

15 % boost in output via lower absenteeism

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