Trucking is a profession that exposes drivers to many risks of injury. Here are the most common risks truck drivers face:
- Road accidents: Truckers spend long hours on the road, increasing their risk of accidents. Truck accidents can be very serious, resulting in injury or even death. Additionally, driving at night can be more difficult due to reduced visibility and increased fatigue.
- Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs): MSDs account for approximately 40% of all work-related injuries in the trucking industry. Drivers have an increased risk of developing MSDs due to long periods of sitting and the work of loading and unloading goods.
- Loading and unloading injuries: Truck drivers can be injured by lifting heavy objects, slipping, tripping or getting stuck in cargo. They may also fall off when getting on or off the cab or trailer.
- Lifestyle diseases: Drivers spend long hours on the road, often eating unhealthy foods and sleeping poorly, which can lead to health problems such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease.
- The stress : Truckers can be under significant stress due to the pressure to deliver goods on time, heavy traffic and long hours of driving. Stress can have negative consequences on the mental and physical health of drivers.
It is essential that drivers take steps to minimize the risk of injury. Here are some ways to achieve this:
Take regular breaks: Truckers should stop regularly to rest, stretch their legs and stretch. It is important not to drive for long periods without a break, as this increases the risk of fatigue and an accident.
Recognize the signs of fatigue: Signs of fatigue include drowsiness, frequent yawning, difficulty concentrating, and itchy eyes. Drivers should be aware of these signs and stop to rest if necessary. Better to arrive late than risk death…
To manage stress : Drivers can manage their stress by practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga. They may also find ways to distract themselves during the long hours on the road, such as listening to music or audio books.
Eat healthy : Truckers should ensure they eat healthy foods, such as fruits and vegetables, and avoid fatty and sugary foods. They can also plan on-the-go meals with healthy snacks to avoid junk food on the road. Heavy meals can be harder to digest and cause drowsiness.
To keep onself in good form : Drivers can maintain physical fitness by regularly practicing stretching and strength training to reduce the risk of MSDs. It’s also important to make time for cardiovascular exercise, such as walking or running, to maintain their overall health.
Complete safety training: Drivers are encouraged to take safety training to learn best practices for driving, loading and unloading goods. Employers should also provide adequate safety equipment to reduce the risk of injury.
By following these tips, truck drivers can reduce the risk of injury on the road and maintain their overall health. It’s important to remember that safety should always be the top priority when it comes to driving a truck, that’s what being a professional driver!