AN EMPIRICAL INVESTIGATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF MODEL FOR MEASURING THE PERCEIVED LOW BACK PAIN PREVALENCE LEVEL AMONG DRIVERS IN INDIA

Low back pain is one of the leading causes of occupational injury and disability among vehicle operators. The purpose of this study is to formulate a model for measuring the perceived low back pain prevalence level among drivers. Therefore, the potential risk factors of back disorder are identified and a unique model is presented.Data were collected from drivers and office staff (control) of public transport department in South India. The instrument framework was empirically tested for unidimensionality, reliability and construct validity using a confirmatory factor analysis approach. This new model can be effectively used in the transportation departmentsto enhance the vehicle operator health.