Assessment of urban rail train drivers’ emergency handling capability based on a physio-psycho-machine-environment-management multidimensional framework

This study addresses two major limitations in the current evaluation system for urban rail train drivers’ emergency handling capability: the lack of clearly defined criteria, and an overemphasis on technical skills to the neglect of psychological factors. We innovatively construct a multidimensional evaluation framework based on the Physio-Psycho-Machine-Environment-Management (PPMEM) model. Through a systematic analysis of the core components of emergency response capability and its influencing factors, a mechanism model rooted in “Human-Machine-Environment-Management” theory is established. Empirically, 30 key influencing factors were identified and categorized into seven dimensions: cognitive, physiological, skill-based, psychological, equipment, environmental, and managerial. A mixed-methods approach was adopted. During the qualitative phase, a system of influencing factors was determined through field studies and in-depth expert interviews. In the quantitative phase, a questionnaire survey was administered to employees of Kunming Rail Transit Operations Co., Ltd. (N = 538 valid responses), and a multidimensional evaluation model was developed using structural equation modeling (SEM) with Amos 26 Graphics. The results indicate that the total effects of latent variables on emergency handling capability, in descending order, are: psychological factors (β = 0.214) > physiological factors (β = 0.212) > environmental factors (β = 0.205) > equipment status (β = 0.126) > cognitive factors (β = 0.105) = skill-based factors (β = 0.105) > managerial factors (β = 0.102). Notably, psychological, physiological, and environmental factors all exhibited effect sizes exceeding the significant threshold of 0.2, constituting a core group of determinants for emergency response performance. Therefore, metro operators should prioritize improvements in drivers’ workload management, mental health support, and environmental adaptability, supplemented by targeted skill and cognitive training, as well as policy refinement. These measures will contribute to a systematic enhancement of emergency response capabilities. The findings provide both a theoretical foundation and practical guidance for strengthening emergency management systems in urban rail transit.