Forestry & Logging firms need to be aware of the different factors that can affect the wellbeing of their drivers – one of, if not, their most important assets. One of the main factors is stress, which can impair their performance behind the wheel and potentially lead to a serious accident on the road. With long hours, heavy workloads, and tight deadlines, stress is a very common and ongoing health concern for truck drivers in the industry so it’s important for their manager/s to check in on them regularly and for drivers to manage their lives in a way in which they are less susceptible to stress and burnout. 

What causes truck driver stress?

While the job itself is often the root cause of increased stress levels: 

• Loneliness and isolation from being away from home and on the road for extended periods of time.
• Managing tight delivery windows.
• Dealing with traffic and bad drivers on the road.
• Feeling disrespected by other drivers on the road, customers and managers.
• Job regulations - pay, eligibility to drive and being told how to do their job. 

It can also stem from:

• Inadequate sleep.
• Ongoing health issues.
• Unhealthy lifestyle.
• Responsibilities outside of work. 
  
  

Useful tips for how log truck drivers can manage stress

Health and lifestyle:

• Rest - aim to get adequate sleep (7-9 hours) between shifts. 
• Exercise - physical exercise is proven to be a great stress reliever and helps improve your overall quality of life.
• Diet and better eating habits - avoid fast food, energy/soft drinks and excessive amounts of caffeine. Healthy foods can help lead to a better lifestyle and increase energy levels. 
• Make the most of your downtime - ditch parts of your to-do list of things to tackle around the house and take part in fun, outdoor activities with friends and family. Enjoy your time off, and above all, get lots of rest. 

At work and on the road: 

• Avoid colleagues who bother you e.g. a co-worker who causes you to become tense or angry.
• Communicate your feelings of stress clearly and openly to colleagues and managers.
• Listen to podcasts on the road to help reduce stress levels and soften feelings of isolation.
• Know your route and plan rest stops in advance.
• Breathe deeply when you feel stressed. This helps create a calming effect, reduces stress and restores energy. 
  
  

It's imperative for Forestry & Logging firms to be mindful that if their drivers are experiencing inordinate levels of stress, it greatly impacts their health and wellbeing, and increases the risk of financial and reputational loss. 

For more information about Victor's Forest & Logging program, get in touch with your Regional Marketing Contact or email forest.us@victorinsurance.com.