Australia is not a small country. To keep the country connected requires covering vast distances, which, in turn, requires the tireless efforts of truck drivers. Always on the move, truckers keep the shelves stocked, the construction sites supplied, and the economy moving. Yet, theirs is a physically demanding job, which can pose a challenge for job-related safety. Today, we talk about the problems faced by truck drivers and what it implies for employers. 

Fatigue and Health Risks

The trucker’s life is defined by long hours and sometimes irregular sleep patterns. This is true for any kind of shift work. It disrupts our circadian rhythms, which can lead to chronic fatigue. On the one hand, this exhaustion increases the risk of accidents. 

Of course, truck drivers alone are not responsible for road safety. Yet, they have to navigate a world of potential hazards (e.g. aggressive drivers, drivers unaware of truck blind spots, and weather conditions). All this requires immense focus. Fatigue further compounds these dangers, as it slows reaction times and increases the risk of errors in judgement. 

Accidents, however, are just one of the challenges that threaten truck driver safety. Chronic fatigue can also contribute to health problems like sleep apnea and cardiovascular disease.

Stress and Mental Health Concerns

Trucking also strains the mind. The pressure to deliver on time is constant, which can be exacerbated by traffic delays, diversions, and delays on the loading dock. These disruptions can eat into their schedule and earnings. 

There is also detention time, where drivers are forced to wait beyond their allocated unloading time. But that is not all.

Truckers also have the pressure to comply with fatigue management regulations, which, ironically, may add to their stress. Of course, new regulations and solutions are crucial for safety. But they can involve a lot of learning and paperwork for drivers to manage. It adds to the stress, which may lead to mental health challenges down the road (no pun intended).

What can be done?

As mentioned above, truck drivers are the backbone of Australia's economy. The challenges they face, however, can have a significant impact on their health and safety. It can also jeopardise the reputation, safety, and legal standing of your organisation. 

Commercial Driver Medicals, mandated under the National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme, play a vital role in mitigating these risks. These medical assessments evaluate a driver's fatigue management capabilities. They also play a part in ensuring drivers are physically and mentally fit to handle the demands of the road.

While this is a crucial preventative measure, there's more to be done. Prioritising driver well-being through industry collaboration, flexible scheduling practices, and improved access to healthy food options on the road are essential.

At Logichealth, we understand the unique challenges faced by truck drivers and what it means for employers. We offer comprehensive pre-medical medicals designed to meet the requirements of the National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme. Our solutions can help you identify potential health issues. Manage your pre-medicals with Logichealth and take a proactive step towards a safer, healthier trucking workforce.