According to the latest statistics, four in five (78%) of managers are encouraging professional drivers to report any health problems or concerns, demonstrating serious awareness of the impact that health issues can have on road safety. The survey, which was carried out by road safety charity Brake and the License Bureau, did suggest that only two in five managers are taking action in order to address the issues, however.æ Those confronting the problem have regularly reviewed schedules and workloads in order to try and minimise levels of stress and tiredness. Other issues such as sleep apnoea, diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease can actually impact an employee's ability to see properly: a lethal issue when on the road. Les Owen, a representative of the Licence Bureau, said: 'If all employers acted positively, one step at a time, it would make a big difference to road safety, result in fewer collisions, and benefit many businesses' bottom line.î Good mental health can have a key impact on safe driving.æ Research has linked stress with risky driving and higher crash rates.æ However, only one in five managers hold meetings allowing drivers to discuss issues that might affect their work.æ It is left to the drivers themselves to take the initiative regarding health concerns, even those that could impact their driving. Brake has suggested that holding confidential meetings with drivers could allow them to discuss any health concerns, and could send a clear message that the company cares about the well-being of its staff.æ The process could also help identify issues with drivers who might not feel comfortable coming forward. Education around certain conditions is also seen to be crucial.æ A medical condition such as sleep apnoea could be lethal in some cases, and yet only one in three drivers currently educate their drivers as to the potential risks. Brake have keenly emphasised the fact that if drivers aren't sure of the potential impacts that health and stress can have on safety, they're simply less likely to report any issues.æ Fleet managers, therefore, should take more time to educate their staff, with the risks being explained up-front when the drivers are first hired.
