The concept of situational constraints traditionally captures performance-hindering factors affecting white-collar workers. However, with the rise of digital technologies, understanding the barriers that prevent employees from effectively managing and utilizing digital tools in complex work environments has become increasingly critical. This study develops a digitalization hindrance scale for professionals in the exploration and development segment of the oil and gas industry. Using this nine-item scale, the study examines the impact of digitalization hindrance on safety performance, testing the mediating role of psychosocial hazards. Data from 219 employees in well-logging companies reveal that digitalization hindrance indirectly harms safety participation through psychosocial hazards, reducing employees’ motivation to engage in proactive safety behaviors. However, no significant indirect effect was found on safety compliance. These findings highlight the importance of addressing digitalization hindrance to enhance safety participation and operational efficiency. The study contributes to the literature by distinguishing between the mechanisms affecting safety compliance and safety participation under conditions of digitalization hindrance, offering practical insights for targeted interventions that foster proactive safety engagement.