Occupational Health Hazards: A Study of Bus Drivers

Abstract

Health has always been closely linked with occupation. Sound health in relation to vocation and employment is the most important aspect of the very life of an individual who works and to the society as a whole. Occupational hazards natural in the work environment have become more prominent in the post-industrial societies. These include a wide range of health problems ranging from asthma, heart attack, high blood pressure, stress and other psychological disorders, with many more to list. Occupational health is therefore, an aspect seeking attention at the individual, group and community levels. The related study deals with ergonomics—a link between the worker and his working environment. This would have impact on the body and discomfort reflected in various parts of the body bringing about certain health problems. The present article is an attempt to explore the health hazards among the bus drivers and conductors employed in State Road Transport Corporations. The attempt is directed at investigating risk factors at micro-level in a community of drivers and conductors. It not only establishes the link between health and work environment but also facilitates in assessing the adverse impacts that may be expected.