Factors associated with injuries to truck and bus drivers

Introduction

The truck and bus driving subsector faces many occupational safety and health problems. In 2004, truck drivers made up 2% of the total workforce, but accounted for 15% of fatal occupational injuries, and 8% of nonfatal occupational injuries. Given the enormity of the associated direct and indirect costs, there is need to focus on occupational safety and health in this industry. The purpose of this study is to determine factors associated with injuries in this workforce.

Methods A cross-sectional survey study funded by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and conducted via internet based Survey Monkey to collect information after informed consent from a projected sample of about 200 injured truck and bus drivers in Connecticut is underway. Drivers aged 16 and older who sustained work injury within the past one year based on the company OSHA log are targeted for inclusion. The survey contains questions on personal, workplace, and other contextual factors. Data collected will be analyzed using SAS.

Results

We hypothesize that combination of physical and socio-demographic factors, schedule of regular work hours, overtime hours, shift patterns, hours of sleep, fatigue, and stress will be associated with injuries. Our hope is to identify meaningful patterns of contributory factors that will be useful for future injury prevention efforts.

Conclusion The outcome of the study can be used to plan, develop, and implement injury prevention programs for this workforce whose function is essential to the economic vitality of the nation.