OBJECTIVE To investigate general states of the work locus of control and explore the relationship between work locus of control and occupational stress in oil workers. METHODS 582 oil workers were investigated by using the General Questionnaire and Occupational Stress Measure Inventory. RESULTS There were significant differences in WCLS score between two age groups (= 30 years old group and < 30 years old group) (t = 2.093, P = 0.037). Values of interpersonal relationship, person responsibility, promotion, participation, autonomy, task consistency, challenge, job satisfaction, mental health, self-esteem and coping strategies were higher in the group of internal locus of control; values of role ambiguity, working prospect, depression and social support were higher in the group of external locus of control (P < 0.05). Work locus of control had positive relation with role ambiguity, working prospect, depression, and social support, and negative with interpersonal relationship, promotion, participation, task consistency, challenge, job satisfaction, mental health, self-esteem and coping strategies. In the regression analysis, work locus of control was the major predictive factor of work satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS Work locus of control is associated with many occupational stress factors. The group of extrinsic work locus of control experience more stress in oil workers.