Enhancing The Health And Wellbeing Of HGV Drivers
The health and well-being of Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers require improvement to ensure the safety of the HGV drivers and users of the UK road network.
Driver Health and Wellbeing
HGV driving is often pursued not out of passion but as a practical career option when others are unavailable. As a result, many drivers may feel stuck in a role they find unfulfilling. This dissatisfaction can lead to poor mental health, low morale, and disengagement. Factors that impact both personal well-being and job performance.
A Cultural Shift in the Industry
A fundamental cultural change within the haulage sector is needed, putting HGV driver health at the forefront. Promoting healthier food choices at roadside service areas, for example, can improve drivers’ concentration and energy levels. The prevalence of obesity among drivers, driven by poor diets and lack of nutritious options, has contributed to rising cases of diabetes and cardiovascular issues. These physical health problems often lead to mental health challenges, with further repercussions.
Health Challenges in the HGV Sector
A study by Loughborough University revealed significant health disparities among HGV drivers, particularly in rates of obesity, diabetes, and poor mental health. The findings emphasized how difficult it is for drivers to maintain a healthy lifestyle while working full-time behind the wheel. Highlighting a systemic failure within the sector to provide adequate support.
Improving Access to Healthy Food
Addressing the food environment at Motorway Service Areas (MSAs) is a vital step. Providing healthier, accessible options, such as wholegrain bread alternative, at fast-food outlets, can help shift dietary habits.
Collaboration between the NHS, MSAs, and the haulage industry is essential to empower drivers to make better choices, improving both health outcomes and road safety. One cannot be achieved without cooperation from the other two.
Mental Health and Neurodiversity
Isolation is a major issue for HGV drivers, significantly impacting mental well-being. Moreover, a lack of awareness around neurodiversity within the industry means that some drivers may struggle unnecessarily, resulting in mental health deterioration and, occasionally, behavioural issues. Targeted mental health support and neurodiversity education, potentially through short-form training videos would provide meaningful support.
A Broader Public Health Concern
With approximately 300,000 drivers working in environments detrimental to their health, the strain extends beyond individual well-being to the public health system. Proactive measures could ease pressure on the NHS and reduce long-term healthcare costs.
Targeted Reforms for HGV Drivers
Key reforms include revising the HGV medical examination process to mirror the stringent health checks required for airline pilots. Furthermore, adopting employee-centric practices from companies like Richer Sounds and Timpson, where well-being is a core value, can lead to higher job satisfaction and improved health outcomes.
Conclusion
Improving the health of HGV drivers is essential not only for their own well-being but for public safety and healthcare sustainability. This requires a comprehensive approach involving:
- Regular, rigorous health screenings
- Improved dietary options at service stations
- Adjusted tax allowances to support healthy choices
- Cross-sector collaboration to promote well-being
By implementing these changes, the industry can reduce healthcare costs, improve road safety, and ensure a healthier, more resilient HGV driver workforce.
The above image shows a typical motorway services where the restaurant has been replaced with just a coffee shop.