Occupational Health and Safety training using online platforms in road transport - a case study

Road transport is characterized by high occupational health and safety (OSH) risks and considerable operational variability, which makes the effective management of worker safety a major challenge for transport companies. In recent years, digital training platforms have been increasingly adopted in this sector as a means of improving safety management and regulatory compliance. However, the evaluation of their effectiveness continues to rely mainly on linear and simplified assessment models, which often fail to reflect the complex interactions between training, operational behavior, and overall system performance. This study examines the impact of digital OSH training in three road transport companies by applying a mixed-method research design that combines the Kirkpatrick evaluation model, functional variability analysis, and comparative pre- and post-intervention assessment. The empirical investigation involved a sample of 47 professional drivers who participated in a structured online training program focusing on occupational risks, fatigue management, compliance with driving regulations, and simulations of critical work situations.Training effectiveness was evaluated using learning outcomes at Kirkpatrick Level 2, behavioral indicators derived from telematics systems at Level 3, and organizational safety outcomes at Level 4. On this basis, a composite training efficiency indicator was developed and correlated with changes in functional system performance. The results indicate significant improvements in knowledge acquisition and safety-related behavior, accompanied by an average reduction of approximately 44% in functional variability within critical operational functions. Furthermore, strong correlations were identified between training efficiency and functional stabilization, as well as moderate but consistent correlations with organizational safety indicators.These findings suggest that digital OSH training contributes to safety not only by enhancing individual competencies, but also by regulating functional interactions and reducing unwanted variability in complex socio-technical systems.