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
| Driver | Health impact |
|---|---|
| Shifts >12 h | Slower reaction time |
| Continuous vibration | Musculoskeletal pain, insomnia |
| Poor lighting | Circadian disruption |
| Social isolation | Depression, 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