The Work Ability of Hydropower Plant Employees in Altitude Conditions of 650 m to 4100 m in China

Objectives: People exposed to a high-altitude environment show impaired work ability. However, the relationships between the work ability of hydropower plant employees at different altitudes and various influencing factors have not yet been studied. This study focuses on the distribution and factors influencing of work ability in hydropower plant employees working at altitudes of 650‒4100 m and explores measures to improve their work ability. Methods: We randomly selected 374 employees from 12 hydropower plants at different altitudes to carry out cross-sectional research, using a work ability index (WAI) and anxiety self-assessment scale (SAS) to collect information, and then performed an analysis using hypothesis testing, correlation, and multiple linear regression analysis. Results: The results showed that there is a significant difference in the WAI value of different altitude groups (p < 0.001), which decreases by 3.23% on average per thousand m the altitude increases (p < 0.001). The main relevant factors include the level of anxiety (p < 0.001), the nature of the work (p = 0.022), vacation time (p = 0.004), and diet (p = 0.037). The work ability of hydropower plant employees above 1000 m is lower (WAI < 37) than others. Employees with higher education, 30‒40 years old, with high-altitude work experience, and nonsmoking and nondrinking have relatively higher WAI values in each group comparison. Conclusions: These findings help to formulate practical intervention plans and raise the work ability at different altitudes, especially in high-altitude hydropower plants. In this way, we can help reduce the risk of early retirement.