An Ergonomic Study on the UP-Diliman Jeepney Driver's Workspace and Driving Conditions

Abstract

The Philippine Jeepney is one of the most popular, the most accessible and cheapest medium of public transportation in the country. During their driving period, an average of 10hours a day, the Filipino jeepney drivers are exposed to sustained awkward postures. This research aims to evaluate the drivers’ workspace and driving conditions in relation to their anthropometric measurements and their workspace dimensions in order to determine the sources of awkward postures. A comprehensive survey among jeepney drivers inside the UP Diliman campus was conducted to identify the discomforts experienced by the drivers. In addition, a workspace evaluation in comparison with the drivers’ anthropometric measurement was also administered to seek out discrepancies that accounts for the discomforts felt. Results reveal that jeepney drivers’ working conditions pose danger to their health and safety. For instance, there is an insufficient distance between the steering wheel and driver's seat causing restraint to the drivers’ mobility. The limited height of the windshield also blocks the driver's line of sight keeping the drivers leaning forward when looking for traffic signs. Recommendations were made to improve the working conditions of the Filipino jeepney drivers.