Locomotive Ergonomics: “An Analysis for Eff...

Locomotive Ergonomics: “An Analysis for Effective Stress Management of Indian Railway Loco Pilots”

Author Name : Ms. Geetha Rajan. N, Dr. (Mrs.) Rama Venkatachalam

ABSTRACT

Work stress is inevitable in human life. People working in any organizational setup experience stress at some point in their work life. Work stress leads to lack of interest in work, creates discontent, increases absenteeism as well as mental health issues, which can be seen as a rising trend these days. Many organizations conduct regular workshops and training sessions for managing work stress. But there are certain factors which are not considered in prime fascia. One such factor is ergonomics. Most of the studies have proven that work stress is caused by the workstation design or workplace environment. An appropriate workstation design supports the need of the employees to work in a conducive work environment and utilize and explore their potential to the fullest. The main discussion of ergonomics workstation design in this paper includes control stand, operating equipment, working chairs, lighting, pollution level, sound proof and air pressure level. This paper presents a study on 42 Loco Pilots of Pune Division Indian Railways, channeling in various directions. Descriptive statistics is used for data analysis.  The findings support that the control stand, operating equipment, working chairs, lighting, pollution level, sound proof and air pressure levels are not favorable to loco-pilots. Therefore this paper is focused on the importance of ergonomics with respect to occupational stress and its need for improvement in the cabin interiors of loco pilots. The study is concluded with some effective suggestions after having a discussion with a few respondents.

Keywords: Loco Pilots, Occupational Stress, Stress Management, Ergonomic, Workplace