NEWMARKET, Ont. – Extended Training Offerings from CarriersEdge
CarriersEdge has broadened its training course offerings to include new modules that focus on mental health challenges faced by truck drivers and issues related to personal security that they might encounter while on the road.
The Importance of Mental Health and Safety
Jane Jazrawy, CEO of CarriersEdge, highlighted that a driver’s mental health and sense of safety are crucial for their overall well-being and work efficiency. “These new courses address needs that are critical yet often overlooked due to the difficult nature of these conversations,” she explained. Many leading fleets participating in the Best Fleets to Drive For program, which evaluates top workplaces in the North American trucking sector, have implemented training programs targeting mental health and personal safety. Recognizing this trend, CarriersEdge has developed formalized online training in these areas.
Challenges in Mental Health for Truck Drivers
Commercial truck drivers frequently deal with issues like social isolation, extended work hours, sleep disturbances, and job-related stress, potentially leading to burnout and loneliness. The CDC states that over 50% of the U.S. population will face mental health challenges at some point, with truck drivers being particularly vulnerable. A CDC report from 2017 noted that transportation professionals experienced the fourth-highest suicide rate among occupational categories.
New Course: Mental Health
The “Mental Health” course aims to enhance understanding of mental health issues and equip drivers with strategies to improve their mental well-being while on the road. Upon course completion, drivers will be able to:
- Distinguish between good mental health and mental illness.
- Identify common mental health challenges faced by professional drivers.
- Understand how lifestyle choices can impact mental health.
- Implement techniques to foster good mental health while driving.
Breaking the Stigma
Jazrawy pointed out that stigma around mental health still exists, making it challenging for individuals to discuss their mental well-being for fear of judgment. “This course serves as a vital resource for drivers to identify and address mental health challenges, while aiding fleet managers in monitoring and discussing these crucial issues with their teams,” she noted.
Focus on Personal Security
Truck drivers may also face personal security threats on the road. According to Verisk’s CargoNet, cargo theft incidents in the transportation sector rose significantly, with 1,778 reported cases in the U.S. in 2022, marking a 15% increase from 2021. The new “Personal Security” course is designed to raise awareness among drivers regarding potential security risks and outline steps to take in dangerous situations. Following the course, drivers will learn to:
- Recognize situations that might threaten their personal safety.
- Understand the tactics used by thieves to target cargo.
- Realize the difficulties in preventing cargo theft.
- Learn protective measures throughout the delivery process.
- Know how to de-escalate risky situations.
- Identify appropriate moments to use self-defense.
No Additional Cost for New Courses
The “Mental Health” and “Personal Security” courses are now accessible to CarriersEdge customers at no extra charge as part of the subscription service. The package includes nearly 200 titles, with both new and updated material added regularly. Courses are available in various formats, including full-length orientations, short refresher sessions, remedial titles, and standalone knowledge assessments.
