Professional drivers are naturally on the road for a large part of the time and over a third say they find it a challenge to stay healthy. It’s important to look after your physical & mental wellbeing and a little knowledge of how you can, goes a long way. Take a look at these top tips from Driver Hire’s own HGV drivers covering everything from keeping in shape, getting enough rest and food prep:

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It is incredible to think that over 23,000 Driver Hire candidates supported 5,000+ businesses across the UK last year. Those individuals drivers and other logistics staff collectively covered a staggering 790,000 shifts and what’s more, when we asked how they felt about working here, 95% of the 1,000+ who responded said they were proud to work for Driver Hire. Our candidates do an incredible job for our clients who rely on them, because they’re treated as the professionals that they are.

It is incredible to think that over 23,000 Driver Hire candidates supported 5,000+ businesses across the UK
last year. A staggering 790,000 shifts were covered by essential logistics staff drivers and a wide range of
other roles enabling organisations to meet often critical deadlines.
What’s more, when we went out to ask our customers to rate the level of service we were providing, 98% of
the 400+ who responded rated it as either Excellent or Good 79% rated Excellent (both scores, our best
ever!)
If you need reliable staff cover from a quality candidate, great service from a local logistics recruitment
expert AND excellent value for money you know who you call: Driver Hire Uxbridge on 02030567590
#dhProud #uxbridge

As a professional driver, your health and well-being is key to being safe while at work. Here are some tips to keep your well-being in check:

Here are some tips to keep your well-being in check.

1. Initial Vehicle Checks

Doing a daily walk round check is not just to ensure the vehicle is safe for the road; making sure everything works properly also ensures your own safety.

• The cab: access, seat position and seat belts, mirrors and all vehicle controls
• Wheels & tyres: check for any damage, secure wheel nuts
• Also check visibility, load security, brakes, fuel tank, fluids and couplings

 

2. Sleep

Fatigue is a factor in 20% of all road collisions – get as much rest as possible before setting off on any journey.

• Lack of sleep will affect your reaction times and how you respond to situations on the road
• Don’t drive tired. Take proper rest and breaks, and if you feel tired on the road, pull over
• Adhere to Drivers’ Hours Rules – they are there to keep you safe

 

3. Weather

High winds, fog, rain, freezing temperature and bright sunshine can all affect driving conditions, your safety, and that of other road users.

• Adjust your driving to meet the conditions on the road – drive at a safe speed
• Before you set off, check you have everything you need to stay safe on your journey
• Do you know what the weather is likely to be like where you are travelling?

 

4. Loading Safety

Manual handling, loading activities and loading bays are all naturally hazardous. Always focus on safety first and remember.

• Observe all rules and signage, and be mindful of other vehicles and personnel
• Inspect all equipment regularly for wear and tear or damage, both on and off the vehicle. If in doubt, don’t use it, and report it
• Check your load is properly positioned, secure, not overweight, and does not impair your vision

5. Speed

Travelling too fast for the conditions is recorded by police as a contributory factor in more than 28% of fatal crashes in the UK.

• Are you aware of speed limits and stopping distances for the vehicle and the road?
• Road safety charity Brake estimates that every 1mph reduction in average speeds lowers crash rates by 5%
• Adopt ‘defensive driving’ techniques to reduce speed and fuel consumption – and lower stress                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     6. Distraction and StressA Brake and Direct Line survey of UK drivers found that 71% had lost concentration at the wheel within a 12 month period due to stress or annoyance.
  • Some distractions are obvious, such as changing the radio
  • Emotional distractions – running late, having an argument, getting good or bad news – can all affect your reactions
  • It is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving. Put it in the glove box so it can’t distract you

   

  7. Accidents & Breakdowns

  Accidents and breakdowns can have serious consequences for your safety – whatever happens never put yourself in danger to move the vehicle.

  • Where possible use the hard shoulder, emergency refuge area or a lay-by, and switch on hazard lights
  • Exit from the passenger side, away from moving traffic
  • If your vehicle is blocking a road or you cannot exit safely, call the police immediately with your location

   

• 8. Health
  

  

  Vital to your safety and wellbeing – and drivers are a recognised ‘at risk’ group.

  • Have a balanced diet. Limit fast food. Snack on fruit, and stay hydrated with plenty of water
  • Fitness – proven to be a mood lifter
  • Take a walk whenever you can & ensure you are active outside of work
  • Regular Eye Tests – road crashes involving a driver with poor vision are estimated to cause 2,900 casualties. Look after your sight.

   

  9. Personal Safety

  HGV drivers can be subject to risks of theft or physical attack, particularly if you are a trunking driver or you have a valuable load. To help keep you safe:

  • Always remove keys and lock doors when leaving the vehicle
  • Plan your route ahead and keep all documentation about your load out of sight
  • Avoid dark, unlit spots when parking, particularly overnight. Use a secure location wherever possible

  These tips are a guide only and should not be taken as an authoritative document.

  10. Mental Health advice

  Did you know that 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem each year in the UK? What’s more, professional drivers have been identified as a high-risk group when it comes to mental health. We talk readily about our physical health, so why should mental health be any different? Take a look at these tips on ‘Professional Drivers Mental Health‘ that may help to start a conversation.

Posted by Roxana Marian on April 12th 2023