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For millions of people in the U.S., truck driving is a viable career that provides plenty of rewards. The job also dramatically increases the likelihood of musculoskeletal disorders and other problems. In fact, about four in five truck drivers report dealing with one of these disorders in the past year, commonly involving pain in the neck or lower back. Ergonomic support can change these odds by improving the work environment and minimizing the strain on truck drivers' bodies. By considering these factors, businesses can understand the importance of maintaining ergonomics for their truck fleets.
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How Truck Driving Can Cause Musculoskeletal Problems
Driving a truck requires a significant range of movements that, when repeated constantly over years, can lead to significant pain and other concerns. A 2015 study revealed that truck drivers were most likely to report neck pain or lower back pain as a result of their duties, but they may also experience numbness, stiffness, or circulation problems. Pain and discomfort come from a variety of situations common to truck drivers, such as improper sitting positions, limited space, difficulty reaching important components, road vibrations, or inadequate seating. Long periods of time in an uncomfortable position can make these problems worse, especially for truck drivers who get little breaks between driving.
Effects of Musculoskeletal Disorders in Truck Drivers
Sitting in a bad position for hours on end can create long-term musculoskeletal disorders and other health conditions. Over time, a slight pain, stiffness, or numbness can decrease feeling and mobility. These concerns present challenges for the truck driver as well as the work they need to complete. Truck driving can be a high-stress occupation, requiring the balance of several systems to maintain safe operation of the vehicle. Distractions due to discomfort can contribute to serious risks on the road. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that truck drivers are nearly three times as likely to encounter a nonfatal injury or illness than the average worker, which may be due in part to unreasonable working conditions.
Reasons to Consider Ergonomics for Truck Drivers
While driving trucks can create so many health problems for workers, ergonomics can prevent or help treat many of them. An ergonomic working environment takes the driver's needs and perspectives into account, creating a design that fits the driver perfectly. With the right physical support, truck drivers can minimize discomfort and focus more of their attention on driving. They are less likely to need time off to address physical conditions, and they may be more likely to stay in the job. Making sure each driver is comfortable can also increase productivity and boost employee retention, which are key goals for businesses.
Ergonomic Truck Modifications
When shopping for PAI truck parts and other necessary components for a trucking outfit, companies ought to consider ergonomics as an important part of a successful design. Ergonomic supports might include adjustable seating, ergonomic steering wheels, adjustable mirrors, climate controls, smart dashboards, and accessories such as seat cushions, armrests, or backrests.
Ergonomics do not only relate to a driver's physical position while working. Businesses should evaluate the problems in their current driving workforce to tailor solutions to the most common issues. They can form a plan to maintain brakes and power steering to decrease stress and improve vehicle performance, which eases a truck driver's concerns and difficulties. Companies may also need to reorganize the way they schedule driving shifts to provide more breaks and incentives for drivers to maintain a healthy approach to driving.
Driving a truck can be a rewarding profession, but it can also be punishing without the right kind of support. Truck drivers are more likely to report issues with pain, stiffness, or numbness related to their daily tasks and the discomfort of sitting still for long periods. Ergonomic truck design can provide solutions to many of these problems by customizing the truck's cabin function for the driver. By employing these solutions, businesses can increase efficiency and productivity without creating problems for their truck drivers.
Author Bio
Cal Turner is an integral part of the Fitzgerald USA team and is Co-Owner/Operator of Fitzgerald USA Truck Parts Online, a leading provider of high-quality truck parts and accessories. Turner, a University of Tennessee graduate, has been immersed in the trucking industry for nearing a decade. He has spent the last several years expanding on how he can provide unmatched services, products, and expertise in the online truck parts market.