Assembly-line work is often performed in a workplace environment with physical problems, such as noise, vibrations and dangerous machines, that can be an important stress factor.

The feeling that supervisors do not care about creating a good work environment is another important factor of stress. Furthermore, technical development in assembly-line work, especially in large companies, has often resulted in more complicated tasks for the workers who may have difficulty in overviewing all the steps in production; this can easily build up a fear of the unknown and, consequently, more stress.

What an individual feels to be a risk can cause as much stress as a real risk. If danger has been eliminated, it is very important to convince the worker that this has been done. Even a slight suspicion that all is not faultless can develop into a stressful situation.