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Cognitive Load and Occupational Injuries

Author

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  • Bonsang, Eric

    (Université Paris-Dauphine)

  • Caroli, Eve

    (PSL Université Paris Dauphine)

Abstract

We investigate the relationship between cognitive load and occupational injuries. Cognitive load is defined in the literature as a tax on bandwidth which reduces cognitive resources. We proxy cognitive load with the number of non-professional tasks that individuals perform during weekdays. The underlying assumption is that when individuals perform many of those tasks, this requires mental organization which reduces available cognitive resources. We show that being cognitively loaded is associated with an increase in the risk of occupational injury for both males and females. The effect is stronger for individuals in high-risk occupations and, among those, for low-educated workers.

Suggested Citation

  • Bonsang, Eric & Caroli, Eve, 2021. "Cognitive Load and Occupational Injuries," IZA Discussion Papers 14137, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp14137
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    work injury; cognitive load; time-use data;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J28 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Safety; Job Satisfaction; Related Public Policy
    • J81 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Standards - - - Working Conditions
    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making

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