Investigation of Fatigue and Drowsiness of Welders and Goldsmiths Based on Entropies and Complexity Parameters of EOGs: A Statistical Approach

Exploring various physical conditions and physiological states necessitates using bio-signals. Precisely tracking both mental and physical fatigue in individuals is feasible. This research delves into fatigue and accompanying drowsiness among volunteer welders and goldsmiths, addressing a societal aspect that has been overlooked. The fatigue experienced by welders in India is a complex problem influenced by factors such as working conditions, job demands, and individual resilience. Goldsmiths often operate in cramped workshops, facing challenges related to working conditions, prolonged hours, and mental and physical stress due to the absence of a rotation system. Insufficient infrastructure and safety measures exacerbate physical and mental fatigue. Entropies and complexity parameters serve as vital metrics for gauging fatigue levels. Electrooculogram (EOG) time series from welders and goldsmiths were scrutinized over two sessions, revealing significant differences via parametric t-tests and non-parametric Wilcoxon tests. The study contrasts various entropies and complexity parameters across 80 participants, drawing conclusions based on a hypothesis tested at a 5% significance level. A Bland–Altman plot evaluated the agreement between frequency and time domain measurements and other complexity metrics derived from data collected in two sessions daily. The reliability of the experimental approach was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). These findings provide valuable insights into understanding fatigue and drowsiness, particularly among specific occupational groups.