Effect of Occupational Stress and Work Burn-Out on Safety Behaviour and Performance of Oil Workers in Niger-Delta

Abstract

Background and Aim: Occupational stress and work burnout may influence how workers participate in and comply with workplace safety practices. This study examined their effects on safety behaviour and safety performance among oil workers in selected oil and gas companies in the Niger Delta, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was used. The study population comprised 6,112 workers from six selected companies, and 400 questionnaires were administered; 385 valid responses were analysed. Occupational stress and work burnout were assessed through work-related stressors and symptoms, while safety behaviour was measured using safety participation and safety compliance. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation, regression, and structural equation modelling. Results: Respondents reported high occupational stress (weighted mean score [WMS] = 3.26) and work burnout (WMS = 3.62). They also reported positive safety participation (WMS = 3.67) and safety compliance (WMS = 3.73). The analyses indicated that occupational stress and work burnout were negatively associated with safety behaviour and safety performance. Increased stress was linked to reduced safety participation, which may increase the likelihood of near-miss incidents and accidents. Conclusion: Occupational stress and work burnout remain important concerns in the selected oil and gas companies. Management attention to workload, organisational stressors, employee support, and consistent safety practices may help protect worker well-being and sustain safety performance.