When you’re spending long hours on the road, it can be very tempting to push past your limits or to take risky shortcuts just to get the job done. Over-the-road trucking (OTR) can be really challenging, and the CDC reports that truck drivers have a higher risk for accidents and illnesses. Unfortunately, with 73% of drivers admitting that they have unrealistically tight deadlines, safety protocols are often compromised on the road.
It’s important to aim to finish work tasks and maintain your overall wellness and safety at the same time. A healthier lifestyle for truckers is possible, and these tips below are great advice:
Prevent burnout by sticking to your hours of service
At first, the long driving hours may not seem too difficult, especially for experienced drivers. Over time, though, those long working hours can affect your wellness and lead to burnout.
As such, it’s important to stick to the regulations on your hours of service. These restrictions on working hours are set in place so that drivers can maintain safety on the road. On top of that, you can also get adequate rest and have some free time if you stick to the driving limit of 11 hours per day. This ensures that you have time to unwind and rest, so that you are calm and prepared for your next shift.
Maximize safe driving by discussing logistical issues
Logistical issues can happen unexpectedly. Unfavorable weather conditions or even pick-up delays can throw off your entire schedule.
But rather than handling matters on your own, it’s best to discuss these logistic issues with your company. HR managers are a great resource in this case, as they’re in charge of handling workplace health and safety. An HR manager’s knowledge of employment law and talent management will help them optimize the workforce, which in turn allows you and your co-workers to navigate issues without compromising your safety. By opening up about your work concerns, you can find ways to execute your work at a safe and manageable pace.
Find ways to stay on top of your nutritional habits
It may seem like a good idea to grab some chips and an energy drink as you gas up the truck. And although it’s fine to indulge once in a while, you still have to be mindful of your diet.
Many long-time truckers can be at high risk for diabetes, since OTR driving can lead to unhealthy eating habits. Buck Ballard of Trucking After Hours was one of these truckers. However, he was able to improve his condition and continue working by consulting with a nutritionist who recommended dietary changes. Likewise, you can work with nutritionists and other health professionals to get real, fact-based advice on how you can incorporate healthier meal plans into your daily trucking routine.
Lower your cancer risk by practicing preventive measures
OTR driving can definitely be risky, especially if you’re not practicing proper health measures. Apart from observing safety measures and nutritional practices, you also have to keep your risk of getting cancer at a minimum.
Studies have warned that truck drivers are at high risk for melanoma, since their faces and upper bodies are constantly exposed to the sun. Additionally, air pollution and smoking can increase your risk for lung cancer, while the vibrations of the truck can lead to aggressive forms of prostate cancer. To lower your risk for these forms of cancer, you need to be proactive in protecting yourself from the sun and from harmful smoke. You should also go in for regular check ups to stay on top of your health.
OTR driving can be risky and dangerous if you aren’t mindful of your overall health. Practicing healthy habits means you can stay safe on the road, and enjoy the fruits of your work for more years to come.
Exclusively written for CDL Hunter
By: Rayelle Jolaine
