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Physical and Mental Health of Australia’s Truck Drivers

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Monash University is conducting a nationwide survey looking to learn more about the physical and mental health of Australia’s truck drivers, reckoned to be the number one employer of men in Australia. 

This is in partnership with Centre for Work Health and Safety, Linfox Logistics and the Transport Workers’ Union. This Monash research is one of the first of it’s kind in Australia. The study is also supported by the National Health and Medical Research Council.

People who drive all kinds of trucks, from light rigids to road trains are being encouraged to take part in a survey to give more insight into the health of Australian drivers.

Transport workers experience specific health risks in their working environments, including isolation, long hours and chronic fatigue. Tight delivery deadlines can add extra stress to an already challenging workplace.

The survey opens in September and can be completed on any device that can access the Internet, such as mobile phones, laptops or desktops. The study partners say they are committed to working with the industry to develop new approaches to prevent and minimise the risk to physical and mental health.

“This survey will provide new insights into factors in the workplace, at home and in the community that affect health in positive and negative ways,” says Dr Ross Iles from the Monash University School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine. “Driving for a living poses many health challenges, both mental and physical, and yet there is little research or documentation that can drive change to help drivers be healthy and stay healthy at work. We know that employers can play a huge part in workers’ health and some employers in the industry will need guidance to support the health of their drivers.”

Monash University’s landmark study examined 12 years of data and found that over 120,000 injury and fatality claims were made over this period. Monash University is launching the Driving Health Survey to improve the health of professional Australian employed drivers to make the industry safer. 

Last year, the Driving Health Study found that, specifically, truck drivers are 13 times more likely to die on the job than all other workers. 

“This study is a wake-up call,” said Michael Kaine, National Secretary for the Transport Workers’ Union. “Driving is a tough job. We must do more to ensure our drivers are healthy and safe at work. This survey will give us a baseline of information that will allow us to put in better strategies for the future.”

To learn more or to register interest in the survey, go to the web site. 

 

physical and mental health of Australia's truck drivers

 

 

 

 

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