Limitations and Conclusions
Much of the evidence relevant to this proposal comes from controlled or simulated tasks and population-specific samples. Moreover, the cited studies do not collectively test whether degraded sensory input causes cognitive overload and subsequent mental fatigue across occupational settings. Workload measures and physiological signals are context dependent, and mental fatigue may occur without preceding overload (6, 7). Field studies that separately measure sensory conditions, workload, overload-related performance changes, and fatigue are needed before integrated operational benchmarks can be established.
In conclusion, considering sensory conditions alongside cognitive task demands may improve how workplace risks are investigated and managed. The proposed approach is a framework for evaluation and future validation, not evidence that a single causal pathway or universal benchmark has already been established. Any sensory screening or neurophysiological monitoring should follow applicable privacy and data-governance requirements and be used to support ergonomic accommodation, not punitive performance appraisal.
