Occupational Health and Safety Conditions of Public and Private Bus Drivers in the Kumasi Metropolis of Ashanti Region of Ghana.

Abstract

Drivers are susceptible to a range of work-related challenges. This may be detrimental to the health and safety of drivers as well as their productivity. The study aims to assess the occupational health and safety conditions of public and private bus drivers in Kumasi. Cross sectional design was used and structured and semi- structured questionnaires was employed to collect data. A total of 262 bus drivers were recruited for this study, making up 182 (70.4%) private drivers and 77 (29.6%) public sector drivers. Private sector drivers reported higher incidents of road accidents (59.5%) and ergonomic issues (47%), while public sector drivers faced more fatigue and sleep problems (72.7%). Training programs were attended by 87.8% of drivers, facilitated mainly by police officers (30.5%) and road safety trainers (19.1%). Drivers reported acquiring knowledge on road regulations (87.8%), defensive driving (83.9%), and driving codes (80.2%), with private drivers slightly outperforming public drivers. Private drivers reported more ergonomic issues (47%) and accidents (59.5%) than public drivers. Positive correlations were found between age and experience (r = 0.815, p < 0.01) and between ergonomic issues and road accidents (r = 0.438, p < 0.01). Regression analysis indicated that experience (B = 0.780, p = 0.005) and fatigue (B = 0.500, p = 0.002) significantly affected accident rates. Safety compliance showed deficiencies in fire safety and first aid, though compliance with lamps, mirrors, and road use certificates was high. Drivers exhibited high awareness of speed limits and safety equipment, with private sector drivers generally more compliant. The findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions in training, safety compliance, and hazard mitigation to improve driver safety and performance. Therefore the study recommeds regular maintenance of the buses to ensure that there are few mechanical faults.