Cohort Study Incidence and Risk Factors of Road Traffic Accidents among Healthcare Workers in Bangkok Metropolitan Area

Abstract

Background: Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are a significant public health issue worldwide. In 2023, Thailand reported 14,122 fatalities and 808,703 injuries related to RTAs, posing substantial challenges to national productivity and public safety. This study focuses on health workers who experience continuous stress and fatigue, differentiating them from other professions. Objective: The aim is to analyze the characteristics and risk factors of road traffic accidents within this group. And made a recommendation for targeted interventions to mitigate these risks are discussed. Method: This study utilized questionnaires distributed both via Google Forms and in paper format to employees at Rajavithi Hospital, Bamrasnaradura Infectious Diseases Institute, and Division of Medical Technical and Academic Affairs, Department of Medical Services. Result: Out of 261 respondents, 42 reported experiencing traffic accidents. Key findings include: Departments: The inpatient ward had the highest accident rate (50.0%), followed by the administrative office (14.4%). But the difference was not statistically significant (p = .061). Profession: General nurses had the highest accident rate (66.7%) compared to other professions, but no statistical significance was found (p = .272). Shift work was associated with higher accident rates, with shift workers experiencing accidents at a rate of 56.6%, compared to 33.3% among non-shift workers (p = .007). The likelihood of an accident was significantly higher when it occurred within 4 hours after work, often linked to drowsiness. Conclusion: The study shows that 16.09% of health workers experienced RTAs, often linked to fatigue and shift work, particularly within 4 hours after shifts. Similarly, truck drivers in Thailand face high accident rates due to long-distance driving and inadequate rest, with 20-25% of incidents caused by fatigue. U.S. research also identifies "sleep deprivation" as a major risk factor for hospital workers, especially in the 12 hours after shifts. Night shift work increases road accident risks by 60%.