Title: Fatigue in the Indonesian palm oil industry: a critical review

Authors: Taufiq Ihsan; Vioni Derosya

Addresses: Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Andalas, Padang, West Sumatra, Indonesia ' Department of Agroindustrial Technology, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Universitas Andalas, Padang, West Sumatra, Indonesia

Abstract: The palm oil industry in Indonesia is a major contributor to global oil and fat production, employing millions of workers. Despite its vast workforce, there is a significant lack of information regarding worker fatigue. This review highlights critical fatigue-related issues in Indonesian palm oil plantations. We conducted a comprehensive literature review, gathering publications addressing fatigue risk factors, short-term and long-term health and safety consequences, and various fatigue mitigation strategies. Working in oil palm plantations exposes individuals to multiple fatigue-inducing factors. These factors not only lead to immediate effects like reduced cognitive function and accidents but also contribute to chronic illnesses through autonomic, immunological and metabolic pathways. Given the frequency and severity of worker fatigue, it is crucial to evaluate the effectiveness of existing legislation and industry practices while optimising working, living and sleeping conditions. Considering the current workplace conditions, a thorough assessment of potential preventive measures, including fatigue prediction tools and personalised fatigue management systems, is recommended.

Keywords: mitigation strategies; palm oil; risk factors; worker fatigue.

DOI: 10.1504/IJRS.2025.149320

International Journal of Reliability and Safety, 2025 Vol.19 No.4, pp.380 - 393

Received: 19 Sep 2024
Accepted: 15 Jan 2025
Published online: 24 Oct 2025 *

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