A Review on the Impact of Workload on Physical and Mental Health from an Ergonomic Perspective

Abstract

Workload management plays a constructive role in reducing job stress and burnout while increasing productivity. In this context, different measures have been implemented to optimize resource use while maintaining employee well-being. Many researchers have conducted studies in the field of workload; however, the comprehensive impact of balancing workload on physical and mental health has not been thoroughly investigated. This study aimed at investigating the impact of workload on the physical and mental health of workers, thereby contributing to the reduction of injuries and occupational diseases. Specifically, it explores various approaches to reduce mental and physical workload, enhance productivity, and mitigate the negative effects of increased workload, such as job stress, job burnout, and musculoskeletal disorders. A systematic review was conducted, guided by the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement, utilizing an initial pool of 122 articles to examine the impact of workload on the physical and mental health of workers. Subsequently, 63 articles were included in the study for the analysis. Data collection was performed using articles published in Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and ResearchGate databases. Our results indicate that, in recent years, the use of collaborative robots (COBOTs) has increased to reduce workload. Significant progress has been made in developing new methods for evaluating mental and physical workload. It appears that human automation and COBOTs have the potential to empower workers. Furthermore, participatory ergonomics, group discussions, ergonomic training, a safety-oriented atmosphere, workload management, situational awareness, job satisfaction, fatigue, burnout, shift work, and the design and improvement of working environment conditions can all significantly impact workload. © 2026, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.