Investigation of the Knowledge and Practices of Drivers/Conductors Working in Government Buses Running Through Tricity, Chandigarh Regarding the Use of First Aid Kit

Background: Road safety is a shared responsibility. Prompt first aid provision at the place of accidents can reverse unpleasant consequences of victim's health and life. Reducing risk in the world’s road traffic systems requires commitment and informed decision-making by all stakeholders- government, industry, non-governmental organizations and international agencies and the participation of people from all walks of life [1].

Methods: A cross- sectional, community- based, exploratory study was conducted for four months (Jan 2019 to Apr 2019) to assess the knowledge and practices of first aid among drivers and conductors of buses running through Tricity, Chandigarh. In this study, a total of 300 drivers and 300 conductors of buses of CTU, Haryana Roadways, Himachal Roadways and Punjab Roadways were interviewed in order to have a generalized idea about the level of awareness and practices of first aid in real-life circumstances by the government employees of buses.

Results: Five hundred and seventy-five (95.8%) employees were aware of the prominent position of first aid box in buses and 197 (32.8%) employees felt safety of passenger as their foremost duty when bus meets an accident.

Conclusion: The awareness and practices of first aid among drivers/conductors in saving the lives of passengers is seen comparatively more than the other studies conducted previously. But they still require more awareness and better practices to be followed.