Impact of Cognitive Fatigue on Attention and the Implications for Construction Safety: A Neuroscientific Perspective

Abstract

The global concern over fatigue in construction professionals, leading to diminished attention, unsafe behaviors, and even accidents, has escalated. Existing research on the impact of fatigue on attention has predominantly focused on qualitative behavioral aspects, relying extensively on self-reported measures and subjective assessments, resulting in interpretations with strong subjectivity and occasionally inconsistent findings. This study bridges this gap by adopting a neural perspective, utilizing a comprehensive quantitative measurement approach that integrates EEG (electroencephalograms), behavioral tests, and subjective rating scales. This interdisciplinary approach attempts to explore the neural mechanisms underlying the impact of fatigue on the attention of construction professionals, considering the regulatory effects of effort. Twenty participants from the construction sector were enlisted to undertake a 60-min Oddball cognitive task. The results indicate that as cognitive fatigue intensifies, the pattern of attention decline exhibits a slow-fast-slow trajectory. Initially, the dominance of effort is observed, which transitions to a stage where resource consumption takes precedence. In the later stage, participants tend to prioritize expediency over accuracy. The study synthesizes these outcomes to delve into the neural mechanisms of fatigue’s impact on attention, addressing the distinct phases, underlying mechanisms, and functions of attention. Moreover, it provides actionable recommendations to elevate attention levels and enhance safety in the construction industry, serving as a valuable guide for practical applications and further research in construction safety management. This study underscores the effect of cognitive fatigue on the attention of construction professionals, directly impacting on-site safety. With increasing fatigue, the attentiveness and response precision of these professionals diminish, escalating accident risks. Implementing practical measures such as work schedule optimization, regular breaks, and fatigue monitoring through technology can bolster safety. Additionally, site managers might consider task rotation and focus on cognitive resource management during training. These strategies are designed to enhance both safety and productivity by prioritizing the cognitive well-being of construction professionals, guiding companies in establishing more effective safety protocols in the workplace.