Physiological Monitoring of Fatigue and Its Management Among Long-Distance Truck Drivers on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway

Driver fatigue is a critical road safety and occupational health concern, with long-distance truck drivers representing a particularly high-risk professional group in Nigeria. This study assessed physiological indicators of fatigue and current management practices among long-distance truck drivers on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, South West Nigeria. Eighty truck drivers were recruited at truck parks along the route. Alertness was assessed using the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale, while heart rate variability was measured using a portable device to detect autonomic fatigue signatures. Salivary cortisol was collected at departure and arrival to assess stress-related physiological change. A structured questionnaire documented sleep patterns, rest stop behaviour, and awareness of fatigue management policies. Descriptive and correlational analyses were applied. Results indicated that 62.5 percent of drivers showed Karolinska scores consistent with hazardous sleepiness. Heart rate variability indices declined significantly after journeys exceeding six hours, indicating physiological fatigue. Cortisol levels rose post-journey. Few drivers were aware of or adhered to recommended rest interval policies. The study concludes that physiological fatigue is prevalent and poorly managed among truck drivers on this corridor. Enforced regulatory rest stops, driver fatigue education, and physiological screening at dispatch points are urgently recommended. Keywords: driver fatigue, heart rate variability, cortisol, sleepiness, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.