CHRONOBIOLOGICAL STRAIN AND DESYNCHRONIZATION: A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS OF THE NIGHT SHIFT BURDEN OF DRIVERS AND CONDUCTORS IN MAYILADUTHURAI DEPOT

Abstract

Night-shift operation is an integral component of public road transport systems, requiring continuous service delivery during biologically unfavourable hours. Bus drivers and conductors engaged in night-duty work are exposed to circadian rhythm disruption, prolonged vigilance, and occupational stress, which may contribute to chronobiological strain and adverse health outcomes. Evidence at the depot level, particularly in semi-urban transport settings, remains limited. The study aimed to assess chronobiological strain and circadian desynchronization among bus drivers and conductors engaged in night duties at the Mayiladuthurai depot. Drivers reported higher occupational stress, whereas conductors exhibited greater sleep disturbance and health-related burden. Night-duty work imposes a multidimensional chronobiological and occupational burden on both drivers and conductors, emphasizing night-shift schedules as a key determinant of circadian strain rather than occupational role. System-level interventions addressing shift scheduling, fatigue management, and worker health support are warranted.