Psychosocial Work Factors and Driver Safety: Key Insights from a Ghana Study on Long-Distance Bus Drivers

A recent study by Amoadu, et al., (2024) titled “Psychosocial work factors affecting safety incidents of long-distance bus drivers in Ghana: Mediating role of psychological well-being” published in Heliyon shows that the psychological well-being of drivers is identified as a critical mediating factor, linking the quality of the work environment to on-the-road safety outcomes.

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Psychosocial work factors significantly influence safety incidents among long-distance bus drivers, mediated by psychological well-being.

– Amoadu,et al., 2024

The article explores the psychosocial work factors that affect safety incidents among long-distance bus drivers in Ghana, particularly examining how these factors influence drivers’ psychological well-being and, consequently, their on-the-road safety. The study addresses the significant gap in research concerning the work environment of long-distance bus drivers in Ghana and other developing nations. It aims to understand how psychosocial work factors, such as job demands and job resources, influence safety incidents. Additionally, it explores the mediating role of drivers’ psychological well-being in this relationship.

How the Study was Conducted

A cross-sectional survey was conducted, involving 7,315 long-distance bus drivers from the major transport hubs of Accra and Tema. The study utilized Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) to test its hypotheses. This advanced statistical technique is particularly useful in exploring complex relationships among variables, allowing the researchers to assess both the direct and indirect effects of psychosocial work factors on safety incidents.

What the Authors Found

The study found that high job demands, such as long working hours, tight schedules, and stressful conditions, significantly contribute to increased safety incidents. Conversely, job resources, including supportive management, adequate rest breaks, and good communication, play a crucial role in enhancing drivers’ psychological well-being, which in turn reduces the likelihood of safety incidents. The psychological well-being of drivers was identified as a critical mediating factor, linking the quality of the work environment to on-the-road safety outcomes.

Why is this Important

Understanding Driver Safety: By examining the influence of psychosocial work factors (such as job demands and resources) on safety incidents among long-distance bus drivers, this study sheds light on critical aspects affecting driver safety. Understanding these factors can inform interventions and policies to enhance road safety.
Occupational Health and Well-Being: The study highlights the role of psychological well-being in mediating the relationship between work conditions and safety incidents. Recognizing the impact of mental and emotional states on driving behavior emphasizes the importance of considering drivers’ well-being in occupational health and safety strategies.
Policy and Interventions: Findings from this research can guide policymakers, transport companies, and road safety organizations in developing evidence-based interventions. Addressing both external work conditions (e.g., road quality, traffic conditions) and drivers’ psychological well-being can lead to safer transportation systems.
Generalizability: While this study focuses on Ghana, its findings may apply to other developing nations with similar occupational contexts. Thus, the methodology contributes to broader knowledge about driver safety worldwide.

What the Authors Recommend

• The authors emphasize that providing drivers with high job control and supportive work culture can help them feel equipped and supported, recognizing the critical roles they play in the transport sector.
• The authors recommend that implementing strategies like the bottom-up communication approach can improve the dialogue between management and drivers.
• The study also advocates on conducting regular assessments to identify and address drivers’ precarious work conditions can create a safer road environment and reduce crashes and associated fatalities.
• Furthermore, the study argues that improving the psychosocial work environment is essential for the drivers’ psychological well-being and on-the-road safety.
• In addition, the author posits that managers of bus transport companies and individual bus owners should integrate effective policies and practices that prioritize driver safety over productivity.

In conclusion, the study by Amoadu et al. sheds valuable light on the intricate interplay between psychosocial work factors, psychological well-being, and safety incidents among long-distance bus drivers in Ghana. By identifying high job demands and supportive job resources as key determinants of driver safety, the research underscores the critical need for interventions that prioritize drivers’ well-being while addressing precarious work conditions. Implementing strategies to enhance communication, empower drivers, and regularly assess work environments can pave the way for safer roads and a more sustainable transport sector.