Assessment of workplace stress of naval radar plotters

Abstract

Radar Plotting (RDP) is a highly important and sensitive industry, as radar plotters are required to not only be highly vigilant, but to be in an environment dealing directly with national security throughout their careers. The number of reported and recorded disciplinary cases involving RDP personnel is relatively high as compared to other specialisations. This purpose of this study is to identify the levels of occupational stress and the dominant sources of stress amongst Radar Plotters who for the purpose of this study are defined as those who take on primary radar plotting roles on naval ships and onshore operation units. It also sought to compare occupational stress levels between supervisory and non-supervisory RDP personnel. The Generic Job Stress Questionnaire, an instrument developed by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) was used to assess job stress. Descriptive statistics was first applied to describe the mean scores of five job stressors. Then, an independent-samples t-test was used to compare occupational stress levels between supervisory and non-supervisory personnel. Results showed that overall, RDP personnel face a high level of occupational stress, and supervisory RDP personnel experience higher stress levels than non-supervisory RDP personnel in the dimensions of Job Roles, Job Requirements, and Physical Environment. However, supervisory RDP personnel were more satisfied and felt less pressure with their job, and reported better social support from their superiors.