The effect of fatigue on the professional and personal lives of train drivers: A qualitative study.

摘要

This study examined the effects of fatigue on the professional and personal lives of train drivers. The literature review demonstrated the existence of a number of quantitative studies, primarily concerned with physiology and very specific in scope. But, this qualitative study explores the phenomenon of fatigue in a comprehensive fashion, providing extensive qualitative and contextual examination of fatigue and its effects.; This study involved a qualitative methodology based on in-depth interviews with eleven volunteer train drivers. An open semi-structured interview format generated portraits of the participants' experiences with fatigue. Individual portraits and overall descriptions of experiences provided thick description of personal experiences with fatigue.; The results describe emerging themes in four major areas. Those areas, and specific final emerging themes, include: Physiological concerns that focus upon sleep difficulties and the effect of erratic schedules on health and well-being; another theme emerged about work environment issues, including the impact of fatigue on operations and the supportive role of co-workers and supervisors; in additions, participants identified psychological concerns such as mood decrements, diminished concentration and the significance a positive attitude; and, finally, participants described the impact of fatigue on the family and social lives of train drivers.; The study described family issues as having the most impact on the participants. In addition, participants identified family support and overall attitude as the most important mechanisms for managing and coping with fatigue. Family support comprises understanding of the physiological and emotional issues surrounding shiftwork and erratic work schedules. Overall attitude involves a comprehensive view of fatigue that includes a positive work environment, co-worker support, job satisfaction, diet, exercise and other similar positive attributes. Final discussion included implications for application of the research findings.