A study of 7,000 workers from 2,000 companies has found unreliable technology causes burnout in both manufacturing and service workers.
The more often workers dealt with tech issues, the worse their burnout symptoms got. Even when using different tools, like machinery or digital technology, all groups experienced technology-related burnout.
The research emphasises the need for companies to provide reliable tech and support to reduce stress. They discovered that for those using digital tech, support from supervisors helped reduce burnout caused by tech interruptions.
For workers using physical tools, having control over their work (job autonomy) helped buffer the effects of tech-related interruptions.
The study highlights that different types of interruption - like machine malfunctions for tool users or digital communications for ICT users—led to different coping strategies for each group.
Ultimately the study shows addressing tech-related stressors is crucial when maintaining a work environment that is safe and without risks to health.
