Role of psychosocial work factors in sleep problems among heavy goods vehicle drivers: The buffering effect of psychosocial safety climate

Background

Heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers are integral to economic productivity but face precarious working conditions that adversely affect their health and safety. This study examined the relationships between psychosocial work factors, burnout, psychological well-being, and sleep problems among HGV drivers in Ghana, with a focus on the buffering role of the psychosocial safety climate (PSC).

Method

A cross-sectional survey of 1,575 HGV drivers conveniently sampled. Descriptive statistics were provided for socio-demographic characteristics of the drivers. Hypotheses were tested using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). Smart PLS version 4.1.0.9 statistical software was used.

Results

The data suggests that high PSC significantly reduced psychological demands, job insecurity, burnout, and sleep problems while improving psychological well-being. This study further suggests that psychological demands and job insecurity increased burnout and sleep problems. This study found that burnout may impair sleep while psychological well-being reduces sleep problems. Burnout and psychological well-being partially mediated the effects of psychosocial work factors on sleep problems. PSC also moderated the adverse effects of job demands and insecurity, though some effects, such as job insecurity’s impact on well-being, lacked practical significance.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that PSC is a predictor of job stressors, burnout and psychological well-being and a buffer of the effect of stressful work environment on health outcomes among occupational drivers in Ghana. These findings indicate the need for integrated organisational and structural interventions to create safe, decent, and supportive work environments that enhance driver well-being and promote road safety.