Ergonomic support for truck fleets

For millions of Americans, truck driving is a viable career that offers substantial rewards. The job also greatly increases the likelihood of musculoskeletal disorders and other problems. In fact, about four out of five truck drivers report suffering from one of these conditions in the past year, often involving neck or lower back pain. Ergonomic support can change these possibilities by improving the work environment and minimizing stress on the truck driver’s body. By considering these factors, businesses can understand the importance of maintaining ergonomics in their truck fleet.

Also Read: The Road Ahead: States with the Most Truck Drivers in 2024

How Truck Driving Can Cause Musculoskeletal Problems

Driving a truck requires a large number of movements that, if repeated over the years, can lead to severe pain and other problems. A 2015 study showed that truck drivers are most likely to experience neck or lower back pain as a result of their work, but they may also experience numbness, stiffness or circulation problems. Pain and discomfort can be caused by a variety of conditions common to truck drivers, such as improper sitting posture, limited space, difficulty in reaching important components, road vibration, or inadequate seating. Being in an uncomfortable position for long periods of time can make these problems worse, especially for truck drivers who have little time to rest between drives.

Impact of musculoskeletal disorders on truck drivers

Sitting with poor posture for hours on end can cause long-term musculoskeletal disorders and other health problems. Over time, mild pain, stiffness, or numbness can reduce sensation and mobility. These issues create challenges for truck drivers and the jobs they need to do. Truck driving can be a high-stress occupation that requires the balance of multiple systems to maintain safe vehicle operation. Being distracted by discomfort can lead to serious risks on the road. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that truck drivers are nearly three times more likely than the average worker to suffer a non-fatal injury or illness, possibly due in part to unreasonable working conditions.

Truck drivers consider ergonomic reasons

While driving a truck can cause many health problems for workers, ergonomics can prevent or help treat many of them. The ergonomic work environment takes the driver’s needs and perspectives into consideration, creating a design that fits the driver perfectly. With the right physical support, truck drivers can minimize discomfort and focus more on driving. They are less likely to need rest to resolve a medical condition and are more likely to continue working. Ensuring every driver is comfortable also increases productivity and improves employee retention, which is a key goal for businesses.

Ergonomic truck modifications

while shopping PAI truck parts As well as other necessary components of trucking equipment, companies should consider ergonomics as an important component of a successful design. Ergonomic support may include adjustable seats, ergonomic steering wheels, adjustable mirrors, climate controls, smart dashboards and accessories such as seat cushions, armrests or backrests.

Ergonomics isn’t just about the driver’s body position while working. Businesses should assess the current issues within their driving workforce to develop solutions for the most common problems. They can ease truck drivers’ worries and hardships by developing a plan to maintain their brakes and power steering systems to reduce stress and improve vehicle performance. Companies may also need to restructure the way driving shifts are organized to provide drivers with more breaks and incentives to maintain healthy driving patterns.

Truck driving can be a rewarding career, but without the right support, it can also be punishing. Truck drivers are more likely to report problems with pain, stiffness or numbness related to daily tasks and discomfort from sitting still for long periods of time. Ergonomic truck design can solve many of these problems by tailoring the truck’s cab features to the driver. By adopting these solutions, businesses can increase efficiency and productivity without causing problems for truck drivers.

About the author

Cal Turner is a valued member of the Fitzgerald USA team and co-owner/operator of Fitzgerald USA Truck Parts Online, a leading supplier of high-quality truck parts and accessories. Turner is a graduate of the University of Tennessee and has been working in the trucking industry for nearly a decade. Over the past several years, he has focused on how to provide unparalleled service, products and expertise in the online truck parts marketplace.