An Examination of Work Conditions and Well-Being of Slovene Train Drivers

Abstract

Background and purpose: While the occupation of a train driver can be likened to other transportation professions like truck or bus drivers, it is essential to note that there are distinct hazards exclusive to this role that have a notable impact on the mental and physical well-being of train drivers. The study aims to define personal characteristics, work organisation and work characteristics, professional development and work in general in connection with risk factors among employees who perform the work tasks of train drivers in railway transport.
Methodology: The study on train drivers in Slovenia was conducted with 179 participants, representing 13.3% of the total population of train drivers. The sample was predominantly male and varied in age, most hailing from the Podravska region. The OPSA digital tool was used to analyse risk factors and gauge psychosocial stress across 17 areas, using a questionnaire split into two sections. Data was collected through online and physical surveys, with voluntary and anonymous participation.
Results: The study found that the personal characteristics of train drivers do not significantly impact their perception of workplace workload. While professional development factors negatively influenced workload perception, the impact was not statistically significant. However, general work characteristics strongly impact how train drivers perceive their workload. These findings suggest that interventions should focus on modifying general work characteristics to improve train drivers’ work conditions.
Conclusions: These findings have important implications for the railway industry. They suggest that interventions aimed at improving the work conditions of train drivers should focus on modifying general work characteristics rather than targeting personal characteristics or professional development factors. Future research should explore these relationships and develop strategies to mitigate the identified risk factors.

Keywords: Work conditions, Well-being, Train drivers, Psychosocial risk factors