Safe, Comfortable & Healthy: Five Must-haves for Every Truck Driver

Safe, Comfortable & Healthy

In addition to their documentation and credentials, every Canadian truck driver needs a few things to keep them safe, comfortable, and healthy on the road. Here are the top five:

1.Emergency Kit & Gear

A heavy truck driver never knows what they’ll encounter when they’re on the road, so, as the old saying goes, you should “always be prepared.” Check and restock your emergency kit and gear regularly. They should include:

  • First Aid Kit
    • Include bandages, compresses, gauze, tape, first aid cream, medical first-aid, finger splints. You may also consider latex gloves, especially if you are the kind of trucker who stops to offer assistance.
  • Roadside Gear
    • flashlight and batteries
    • duct tape, jumper cables, tarp, fuses
    • wrench, pliers, and other tools
    • tire pressure gauge
    • road cones and flares
    • reflective vest
    • shovel
  • Extra Food and Bottled Water

2.Comfort Items

No matter how long you’re on the road, staying comfortable while you’re driving and during your rest periods will help you stay alert, safe, and healthy. Some common comfort items commercial truck drivers take with them are:

  • Cell Phone 12-volt Charger and a Back-up Plug-in Charger
    • keep in touch with loved ones and business contacts
    • play music, podcasts, books on tape, etc. & stay entertained during breaks
  • Pillows and Bedding
  • Personal hygiene supplies
  • A Change of Clothing
    • a full set of clothing plus extra socks and an extra layer for warmth
  • Weather Protective and Work Clothing:
    • hard toe/weatherproof boots
    • gloves, overalls, snow and rain gear, ball cap/hat for the sun
  • Entertainment
    • E-reader, magazines, books, downloaded movies, etc.

3.Glasses

While prescription glasses are mandatory for those who have them, many truck drivers are wearing specialty lenses to help keep their eyes clear and free from strain and glare. These glasses can:

      • filter UVA, UVB, UVC and/or blue light
      • provide sharp, clear vision
      • reduce light while sharpening clarity and contrast

4.Comfortable/Ergonomic Seat

There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it, truck drivers sit a lot, so comfort and support in the right areas are essential. To find what works best for you, visit a medical supply store, talk to other truck drivers, or visit an occupational therapist.

5.Healthy Food & Water

Whether you eat out on the road, or picnic with a cooler and thermos, your cab should be loaded with:

  • ready to eat fresh fruits and vegetables
  • non-perishable snacks that are low in fat, sugar, sodium, and all the things that make up convenience store fare
  • water, lots of water
  • your favourite tea, coffee, or other hot beverage that you can prepare with hot water from a truck stop

6.Bonus Tip

Remember that RJames Management Group supplies parts and expert services throughout Alberta and B.C. Contact us whenever you’re in the area.

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