Trucker health coming into focus amid shortage

There are many reasons why trucker turnover remains high even as other aspects of the job - such as pay and perks - continually improve. Anecdotally, it seems one of the primary drivers of turnover might be attributed to the toll driving for long hours many days in a row can take on drivers' health, and many freight companies are now doing more to address the issue.

Truckers often don't get as much exercise as they probably should, because they spend so many hours sitting in one place and rarely want to take the time to get in a quick walk or other types of calisthenic workouts, according to Freightwaves. Moreover, drivers don't always have access to the best possible meal options, and instead often rely on fatty snacks and fried food from truck stops. Plus, the lack of good sleep and the stress that can come with trying to make deliveries on time - especially under new electronic tracking rules - can make the job even more difficult for many drivers.

A big concern
Of course, companies shouldn't just be looking to help their drivers lead healthier lives - whether they're on or off the job - because it will help them retain their best people in the long term. In addition, when tuckers are happy and healthy, their safety records tend to improve significantly, according to Engineering News. While not all of a company's truckers will face the same conditions when they're on the job - some drivers are long-haul, others spend more time sleeping in their own beds, etc. - many of the health problems they face certainly are similar.

High blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease, among others, are more common among this group than in the broader population, and it is therefore incumbent upon companies to make sure drivers have options for dealing with and learning more about these health issues, the report said. When people understand the risk factors related to serious health problems that could affect their livelihoods in the long run, they may be more likely to take steps to address them.

Getting some help
With growing awareness of the need for better health care in the trucking sector, there are other efforts being made to boost access to care, according to Convenience Store Decisions. In many trucks stops across the country, health care clinics are starting to crop up that will allow drivers to spend a little of their downtime getting a quick checkup or addressing other basic care needs as they arise.

The goal of these clinics is to directly serve a currently underserved population with quick, low-cost treatment and medical advice, the report said. However, there's a benefit to fleet companies as well, because drivers' health problems may add as much as $1 billion in costs industry-wide each year.

When companies can come together to create solutions for their drivers with respect to health care and wellness, all involved may be put in a position to continue meeting today's shipping needs.