Understanding risky behaviours in nuclear facilities: The impact of role stressors

Abstract

Risky behaviours have received little attention in the safety literature in recent years, compared to safety behaviours such as safety compliance or safety participation. However, it is important to focus on risky behaviours and their predictors in order to prevent accidents. The aim of this study is to explore the impact of role stressors (role ambiguity and role overload) on risky behaviours, and the mediating role of dissatisfaction (both job and safety dissatisfaction). The sample consists of 566 employees from two nuclear power plants in Spain. Structural equation modelling is used to determine the effects of role ambiguity and role overload on risky behaviours. Role stressors (role ambiguity and role overload) predict risky behaviours. On the one hand, role ambiguity predicts risky behaviours through dissatisfaction with both the job and safety. On the other hand, role overload positively and directly influences risky behaviours. Assessing and reducing workers’ role ambiguity and role overload levels is vital to avoid risky behaviours among employees.