Occupational Safety and Health Conditions of the Work Environment Affecting Air Traffic Controllers in Kenya DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajhs.v38i2.12

Abstract

Background: Air traffic management (ATM) is vital for maintaining a safe and efficient aviation system. It requires seamless coordination of air traffic controllers (ATCOs), equipment, and procedures. ATCOs must make split-second decisions under pressure, exposing them to occupational safety and health (OSH) risks stemming from inadequately designed work environments. Existing studies prioritise the role of controllers in ensuring flight safety, with less attention given to their own well-being. Thus, this study aimed to examine workplace factors, including lighting, noise, sanitation, emergency exits, and equipment condition, that influence the health of Kenyan ATCOs.

Methodology: A quantitative descriptive study was conducted among 64 ATCOs sampled from a target population of 172 at seven purposively selected airports in Kenya. Participants were selected using proportionate stratified random sampling. Data were collected via structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS.

Results: The study found high prevalence of health issues: headaches (77%), back pain (68.8%), and work-related stress (47.6%). Respondents reported environmental concerns, including inadequate lighting, screen glare, and poor access to workplace amenities. Station preference was linked to perceived stress, with 85.7% of those experiencing stress resorting to self-medication. Chi-square analysis showed significant associations between equipment unserviceability and stress (χ² = 6.24, p < 0.05), stress and help-seeking behaviour (χ² = 23.3, p < 0.001), and back pain and posture deterioration (χ² = 28.96, p < 0.001), leading to rejection of all null hypotheses.

Conclusion: This study reveals critical OSH issues affecting ATCOs in Kenya, primarily driven by suboptimal work environments. Key concerns include inadequate lighting, excessive screen glare, unreliable equipment, and insufficient workplace amenities. Significant associations between equipment unserviceability, stress, reluctance to seek help, and posture-related back pain during high traffic periods highlight both technical and behavioural OSH gaps.

Recommendations: The study recommends improving lighting, maintaining equipment regularly, and enhancing cleanliness to ensure a safer, healthier work environment for ATCOs.