DR. MOHANA PRIYA.M, DR. KEERTHANA D, DR. NISHA B, RAGHAVI R , DR. RUMA DUTTA POSTGRADUATE, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, UNDERGRADUATE , PROFESSOR
DOI: https://doi.org/Introduction: Bus drivers are prone to various health issues. They face particular stressors such as extended working hours, dietary habits, and sleep patterns, which consequently lead to changes in their physical, psychological, and behavioral characteristics. This study aims to assess the different occupational health risks and their related factors among bus drivers.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study was carried out from June 2021 to August 2021 involving bus drivers employed at a government bus depot under the Tamil Nadu state transport corporation. A total of 223 bus drivers were interviewed and examined out of 250 after obtaining informed consent. Data was gathered using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire, entered into MS Excel, and analyzed with SPSS version 21. Descriptive statistics and associations were determined using the chi-square test.
Results: The average age of the participants in the study was 42.9 (+6.7 SD) years. Approximately 47% of bus drivers worked more than 48 hours, and 66.4% traveled a distance of 150-200 kilometers per shift. The mean BMI was 25.4 (+4 SD), and the measured blood pressure indicated a mean SBP (mm of Hg) of 121.4 (+5.4 SD) and DBP (mm of Hg) of 82.2 (+4.7 SD). Among the drivers, an irregular eating pattern was observed in 56.1%. The majority (98.2%) reported less than 6 hours of sleep. In this study, most participants exhibited musculoskeletal issues (44.9%) and general symptoms (40.6%). General symptoms were significantly more prevalent with increasing age, length of service, and average travel distance (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: The occupational stress experienced by participants can be alleviated through effective organizational strategies and health initiatives. Guidelines for working hours should be established to enhance work capacity.
