Ecology & Safety, Volume 15, 2021

Abstract: The wind energy sector has evolved rapidly in recent years and has led to increased growth in wind farms as well as in new jobs. In the literature, risk factors in "green" jobs are a field of growing interest. The purpose of this study is to investigate the health and safety conditions and contributing factors during wind turbines’ maintenance activities. The data collection was done by developing and sending a questionnaire to eight companies, operating in the field of wind turbine maintenance in Greece. Fifty questionnaires were completed by wind turbine maintenance technicians working in 6 out of the 8 companies that participated in the survey. The statistical analysis of the data was performed with LISREL structural equation modeling. The results showed that the mental health of technicians performing maintenance work on wind turbines is affected by adverse ergonomic conditions and increased levels of difficulty and insecurity in the workplace. Health problems associated with extreme fatigue, headaches and hearing problems are affected by both mental well-being of employees and difficulties they face in their work environment. This paper provides the basis for research into occupational health and safety conditions in a relatively new industry, highlighting the potential health and safety effects of wind turbine maintenance activities.