[Use of machine learning for the prediction of stress using the example of logistics]

Stress and its complex effects have been researched since the beginning of the 20th century. The manifold psychological and physical stressors in the world of work can, in sum, lead to disorders of the organism and to illness. Since the physical and subjective consequences of stress vary individually, no absolute threshold values can be determined. Machine learning (ML) methods are used in this article to research the systematic recognition of patterns of physiological and subjective stress parameters and to predict stress. The logistics sector serves as a practical application case in which stress factors are often rooted in the activity and work organisation. One design element of the prevention of stress is the work break. ML methods are used to investigate the extent to which stress can be predicted on the basis of physiological and subjective parameters in order to recommend breaks individually. The article presents the interim status of a software solution for dynamic break management for logistics.Practical Relevance: The aim of the software solution "Dynamic Break" is to preventively prevent stress resulting from mental and physical stress factors in logistics and to keep employees healthy, satisfied, fit for work and productive in the long term. Individualized rest breaks as a design element can support companies in deploying human resources more flexibly in line with the dynamic requirements of logistics.