چکیده
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This study evaluated operators' mental workload while monitoring traffic density in a city traffic control
center. To determine the mental workload, physiological signals (ECG, EMG) were recorded and the
NASA-Task Load Index (TLX) was administered for 16 operators. The results showed that the operators
experienced a larger mental workload during high traffic density than during low traffic density. The
traffic control center stressors caused changes in heart rate variability features and EMG amplitude,
although the average workload score was significantly higher in HTD conditions than in LTD conditions.
The findings indicated that increasing traffic congestion had a significant effect on HR, RMSSD, SDNN, LF/
HF ratio, and EMG amplitude. The results suggested that when operators' workload increases, their
mental fatigue and stress level increase and their mental health deteriorate. Therefore, it maybe
necessary to implement an ergonomic program to manage mental health. Furthermore, by evaluating
mental workload, the traffic control center director can organize the center's traffic congestion operators
to sustain the appropriate mental workload and improve traffic control management.
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