Public Transport Operators: Burden and Consequences upon the Human Operator.

Abstract

Fifty years of research throughout the world supports that urban bus drivers experience higher than average rates of cardiovascular disease, according to the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology in 1998. "Epidemiological data from samples in several different countries consistently find urban bus drivers among the most unhealthy of occupational groups, particularly with respect to cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal disorders," researchers reported. "Further, cardiovascular mortality rates are directly linked to years of service as a driver." The report found that drivers are prone to increased blood pressure and higher levels of stress hormones -- factors that contribute to sickness and death from heart and blood vessel problems. Drivers are exposed to whole-body vibration, diesel exhaust, and noise while keeping them in a combat-like state of vigilance in order to deal with threatening passengers and crazy motorists. As if this weren't enough, bus drivers must adhere to a ruthless schedule of stops or risk being disciplined or fired.