Cutting Out Risks in the Transport Industry
Risks That Logistics and Transport Workers Face
Transport, warehouse, and logistics workers in Australia face significant musculoskeletal risks due to the physical and repetitive nature of their work. Consequently, working long hours, with high physical demands and fatigue, can lead to injuries, chronic pain, and long-term health issues. Reduced productivity and increased operational costs are also impacted.
Did you know that 29% of our workforce comprises road freight transport workers?
Truck drivers are among the highest-risk occupations, facing a rate of poor mental health and chronic health conditions four times higher than the general Australian population. This sector also has the highest rate of serious injury claims at 40% and the rate of incidences of 33 serious claims per 1,000 employees1.
- Musculoskeletal disorders make up 85% of claims in the industry.
- Body stressing constitutes 41% of all claims – accessing and egressing cabs, manual handling of heavy loads, and prolonged sitting are contributors to serious injuries.
- Sprains and strains account for 45% of severe injury cases.
How is this Industry affected?
Fatigue
Fatigue is a major contributor to workplace injuries and accidents, with serious consequences for workers and the public. The prevalence of overtime work in this fast-paced environment is significant. As a result, 40% of employees regularly exceed 60 hours a week. These long hours, shift work, and tight delivery schedules create ongoing physical and mental stress, raising the risk of injury. Fatigue impairs concentration and coordination, leading to poor posture, improper lifting techniques, and an increased risk of slips, trips, and falls.2
Chronic Health Conditions:
A 2022 study showed that one-third of truck drivers are diagnosed with three or more physical and mental Chronic health conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease. These conditions increase the risk of fatigue, slower reaction times, and workplace injuries.
- 1 in 3 drivers has three or more chronic health conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes.
- These conditions increase the risk of fatigue, slower reaction times, and workplace injuries.
Obesity & Lifestyle Factors:
- 50% of drivers are classified as obese, often due to long hours, poor diet, and lack of work-life balance.
- 40% consume alcohol above guideline recommendations, increasing health risks.
- 20% are regular smokers, which contributes to respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
Mental Health Concerns:
1 in 5 drivers live with a diagnosable mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety. Factors such as long hours, job stress, isolation, and fatigue contribute to declining mental wellbeing. On the job, poor mental health can impact decision-making, reaction times, and overall job performance. Long-term stress can cause the hormones – adrenaline and cortisol to remain at unsustainable elevated levels. This leads to increased blood pressure, higher cholesterol, and weight gain, consequently contributing to heart disease and other chronic conditions.
Ageing Workforce Challenges:
Older transport workers face higher risks of musculoskeletal injuries and chronic health conditions. With recovery times increasing with age, injury prevention and ergonomic interventions are essential. This workforce is ageing, so companies must adapt to preventative health strategies and ongoing support.
How Can We Reduce the Risks in the Transport Industry
Maintaining good mental and physical health helps the body manage negative health conditions more effectively. By prioritising regular exercise, a balanced diet, quality sleep, and stress management techniques, we can ultimately create a positive cycle of mental and physical health. This will lead to greater resilience and long-term wellness.
Undoubtedly, addressing fatigue and musculoskeletal risks improves safety and reduces injuries. Additionally, it improves long-term health, job performance, overall productivity and wellbeing in this demanding industry.
WFR assist businesses with boosting employee health and preventing worker-related injuries, reducing the risks for transport workers, and supporting transport and logistics companies. We deliver our strategic and holistic Workplace Wellbeing Solutions in Fatigue Management, Ergonomic Assessments, and Manual Handling Training programs.
Employers are key contributors and can help reduce workplace injuries by offering comprehensive safety programs.
References
- Source: Safety First WH$ &Solutions.
- Source: ReturnToWorkSA Industry Profile – Transport, 2023
