The effect of workload on mind-wandering of drilling operators measured by electroencephalography (EEG)

Mind wandering can cause workers to overlook safety hazards and delay making accurate operational decisions, ultimately raising the potential for accidents. However, there is relatively little research on the physiological characteristics of drilling workers during mind wandering. The aim of this investigation was to tackle the constraints of previous studies and to establish a more comprehensive theoretical framework and practical guidance for safety management. To this end, the phenomenon of workload on mind wandering among drillers during the drilling process was investigated in depth. It focused on drilling site workers, using SART paradigm tasks and EEG devices to track cognitive states under various loads, exploring how they affect mind wandering and EEG mechanisms. Fifty workers participated, observing drilling images to judge accidents. Results showed workload influenced cognitive processes such as mind wandering occurrence, reaction time, accuracy, and brain connectivity. High workload increased reaction time, decreased accuracy, raised mind wandering frequency, altered theta, beta, and gamma waves, and reduced cerebral synchronisation and engagement. Workload affected employees' mind wandering, sensations, focus, and work status, with a positive correlation between workload and mind wandering, potentially harming work performance and safety. Analyzing EEG data helps identify mind wandering and develop intervention measures. In depth research on these features not only helps identify employee mind wandering, but also promotes the development of more precise and personalized intervention measures.