Occupational Fatigue and Its Health Implications Among Long-Distance Truck Drivers in Katsina State

Long-distance truck driving is associated with chronic occupational fatigue, a condition that elevates the risk of road traffic accidents, cardiovascular disorders, and mental health decline. This study investigated the prevalence and health implications of occupational fatigue among long-distance truck drivers operating through Katsina State, North West Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, with 175 drivers intercepted at major truck parks and fuel stations. The Fatigue Assessment Scale and the Chalder Fatigue Questionnaire were used to measure fatigue levels, while health implications were assessed through self-reported symptoms and blood pressure measurements. Results revealed that 79.4 percent of respondents met criteria for excessive fatigue, driven primarily by irregular sleep schedules, driving shifts exceeding 14 hours, and poor rest facility availability. Hypertension was detected in 43.4 percent of participants, and musculoskeletal pain, particularly in the back and neck, was reported by 68 percent. Sleep disorders were prevalent in 54.3 percent of drivers. Multivariate regression analysis identified daily driving hours, age, and night driving frequency as the strongest predictors of fatigue severity. The study recommends regulatory enforcement of driving hour limits by the Federal Road Safety Corps, mandatory rest stops, and pre-employment health screening protocols for commercial truck drivers in Nigeria. Keywords: occupational fatigue, truck drivers, sleep deprivation, road safety, Katsina State.