Citation

Naweed A, Chapman J, Allan M, Trigg J. J. Occup. Environ. Med. 2017; 59(3): 264-273.

Affiliation

Central Queensland University, Wayville (Dr Naweed, Mr Allan, Mr Trigg); and Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia (Dr Chapman), Australia.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1097/JOM.0000000000000942

PMID

28267098

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the impacts of key barriers to improving the occupational health status of Australian train drivers.

METHODS: From May to June, 2015, five semi-structured qualitative focus groups were conducted with 29 train drivers from South Australian, Victorian, and New South Wales-based rail organizations in Australia.

RESULTS: Occupational health was impeded by multiple barriers regarding sleep (patterns/fatigue), diet (planning/context), mental health (occupational stress), rostering (low autonomy), sedentary time, low fitness motivation, and family/social life conflicts. Work organizational barriers included communication issues, low organizational support, and existing social norms. Job design barriers included rostering, fatigue, stimulant reliance, and family/social life imbalances. Self-regulatory barriers included dietary and exercise patterns habits and patterns.

CONCLUSIONS: Occupational health interventions for Australian train drivers must address work organizational, job design, and self-regulatory barriers to healthier lifestyle behaviors.

Language: en