Do occupational stress and cigarette smoking abet each other: survey of a steel industry in Iran

Abstract

Background ― Occupational stress antagonizes human health directly as well as by instigating behavioral adversities like smoking; though it’s relation with latter is yet unveiled. This study aimed at ascertaining the relation between occupational stresses and smoking status among workers of a steel industry in Iran. Material and Methods ― This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 105 workers of steel industry in Iran. Standardized Health and Safety Executive Management Standards Indicator Tool (HSE-MS IT) along with subjects’ demographic features were used to assess occupational stress; while smoking status was measured by standardized methods of Otten et al (1999). Results ― Response rate was 86.7% as 91 completed questionnaires were received back. Mean age of smoking and non-smoking workers 39.5±10.2 & 38.4±5.5 respectively (data presented as mean with standard deviation – M±SD), work experience of smokers and non-smokers 13±6.1 & 12.9±5.9 years respectively, while 90.4% were married. Total occupational stress scored 2.96±0.35; 13.5% staff were at high stress risk. Outcome scores were significantly different between smokers and non-smokers in stress dimensions including role, relationships, managers’ support and peer support. Conclusion ― Although smoking workers revealed better situation in role dimension, yet smoking employees depicted higher stress in relationships, managers’ support and peer support dimensions. Inferences qualify for imperative measures to implicate smoking cessation programs, as well as regime to attenuate occupational stress at workplaces.

Keywords

• mental health
• occupational stress
• HSE-MS IT
• tobacco