THE WORKING ENVIRONMENT FOR LOCAL PUBLIC TRANSPORT PERSONNEL

The study was conducted in six cities of different size. 1442 randomly selected full-time bus, tram or train drivers and guard personnel answered a questionnaire concerning working conditions. The analysis combines two aspects, namely work load and resources for controlling stress. Work loads are for example time pressure, complaints, troublesome passengers and conflicts between keeping timetable, traffic safety and service. Working hours have been related to physical disorder and social effects. Alternating working hours leads to difficulties with insomnia and stomach disorders. It also caused problems in the relations with families, relatives and friends and in participation in time-bound activities. It is concluded that by changing the traffic environment it will be possible to achieve any radical improvements e.g. by separate bus streets, priority at crossings and changed time-tables. One finding is that an "extra load" exists with regard to very late or early runs. The recommendation is a reduction in working hours on those runs. Further permanent shifts should be introduced. If day assignment is ever to be used, it should be limited to familiar lines.