Original Research Unpacking fatigue: How burnout and engagement influence commitment and overtime among South African workers

Wessel van Jaarsveldt, Melissa Jacobs

About the author(s) Wessel van Jaarsveldt, School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resources Management, Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; and WorkWell Research Unit, Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
Melissa Jacobs, School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resources Management, Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa

Abstract

Orientation: Workplace fatigue has harmed the working environment, with workers becoming increasingly exhausted, disgruntled and detached from their work and co-workers. Curbing workplace fatigue is important to increase job performance, commitment, satisfaction and safety in the work environment.

Research purpose: The objective of the study was to investigate the impact of fatigue on the relationship between overtime, burnout, commitment and engagement among South African blue-collar workers. The study also aims to understand the mediating role burnout and engagement play in the relationship model.

Motivation of the study: The motivation behind this study was to understand the role fatigue plays in the working life of blue-collar workers.

Research approach/design and method: A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional study explored the relationship between overtime, burnout, engagement and commitment among blue-collar workers in South Africa. Data from 381 participants were gathered using purposive sampling.

Main findings: The study found negative links between burnout, work engagement, and fatigue, showing that burnout or low engagement increases fatigue. Burnout and fatigue both reduce work commitment, weakening dedication to work.

Practical/managerial implications: Reducing fatigue in blue-collar workers may lower burnout and increase commitment, engagement, and overtime willingness. Addressing burnout and promoting engagement is key to minimising fatigue’s negative impact on organisational outcomes.

Contribution/value-add: The study contributed to deeper insight into the effect fatigue and burnout have on the blue-collar sample’s work commitment, work engagement and willingness to work overtime.

Keywords

blue-collar workers; burnout; fatigue; overtime; work commitment; work engagement.

JEL Codes

D90: General; L20: General; L30: General

Sustainable Development Goal

Goal 8: Decent work and economic growth

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