ASSESSMENT OF HEALTH, SAFETY, AND ENVIRONMENTAL MEASURES AMONG COMMERCIAL BUS DRIVERS IN LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA

Road traffic injuries are critical Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) issues which pose a significant public health challenge. This study assessed the HSE measures among commercial bus drivers in Lagos State, Nigeria transport corridors. The study was cross-sectional and utilized the mixed-method approach. Structured questionnaires were administered to 105 commercial bus drivers while 10 Key informant interviews were conducted on HSE enforcers. The study took place across two locations in Lagos, Nigeria - Oshodi and Yaba, known for their high vehicular traffic and commercial activities. Data was statistically and content-analyzed. Driving in Lagos Nigeria is a gendered occupation dominated by males. Drivers exhibited varied levels of knowledge and compliance with HSE measures, with danger warning signs being the most familiar while special regulation signs were less recognized. Possession of a driving license, roadworthy vehicles, regular maintenance, and defensive driving knowledge were relatively high, indicating a notable degree of HSE awareness and practice. Although over-speeding emerged as the primary cause of accidents and more than half (55.2%) attested to taking alcohol while driving, enforcement of HSE measures was deemed strong in the State, with lower accident rates compared to other states. Adopting and enforcing HSE measures is critical in mitigating road accidents, preserving human lives, improving public health, and reducing economic costs. There is need for comprehensive HSE awareness, continuous training and stronger enforcement in Lagos State, Nigeria.