Help drivers manage fatigue
Promote naps during breaks
A motor carrier can help drivers manage fatigue by promoting naps during the driver’s mandated 30-minute break following eight hours of cumulative driving. It is not enough for drivers to simply pull over and get out from behind the wheel. According to Hawaii Pacific Health, “Researchers found that those who napped regularly reaped greater restorative effects than those who failed to nap.”¹
Create realistic schedules
Create realistic schedules that prioritize drivers’ rest periods, ensuring compliance with hours-of-service regulations. Avoid prolonged shifts and encourage regular breaks to prevent cumulative fatigue. Be flexible with scheduling. Even if drivers have not been driving all day, encourage them to listen to their bodies. If the driver is tired and time permits, encourage them to pull over to a safe area to nap.
Promote health and wellness
Educate drivers on healthy eating habits, the importance of daily activity, and prioritizing mental health. This can also include recognizing the signals of drowsiness and, if planning to get behind the wheel, avoiding medications that can induce drowsiness.
Educate drivers on quality rest and sleep disorders
Provide comprehensive training to drivers about recognizing and managing fatigue. Promote open communication about sleep quality, stress, and workload issues to address concerns effectively. Note: If a driver expresses trouble sleeping, encourage them to talk to their doctor about a possible sleep disorder.
Note: These lists are not intended to be all-inclusive.
Call to action
Identify and implement onboard technologies to help reduce the risk of vehicle accidents.
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