Strengthen Enforcement Against Non-Compliant Carriers and the Driver Inc. Model
The Driver Inc. model improperly categorizes employees as independent contractors. Many drivers mistakenly believe that this model will increase their earnings. However, this misclassification allows the carrier to sidestep responsibilities such as WSIB premiums, employee benefits, and vacation pay. Additionally, it creates a loophole that avoids granting the legal rights and protections employees should receive, which includes essential health and safety measures aimed at addressing driver fatigue.
Enhance Mental Health and Wellness Support for Truck Drivers
During the pandemic, the trucking industry was recognized as essential, and truck drivers continued their vital operations. This situation has revealed the various work-related and societal pressures faced by professional truck drivers, such as chronic stress, tight deadlines, prolonged hours, and isolation. It has also emphasized the urgent need for improved mental health support for this workforce.
Professional truck drivers contend with a challenging environment. Extended periods away from home, along with physical health challenges like poor nutrition, insufficient exercise, and inadequate sleep, can adversely affect their mental well-being. If these issues are not addressed, they may lead to conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Unfortunately, truck drivers often lack robust mental health support systems.
The trucking industry requires immediate implementation of better policies and practices to mitigate the potentially damaging impacts on driver mental health. These improvements can effectively reduce driver fatigue and enhance overall public safety.
How IHSA Can Make a Difference
The IHSA has created a variety of online educational tools aimed at tackling driver fatigue and assisting workplaces in bolstering their road safety strategies. These materials, including fatigue management tip sheets for both employers and employees, facilitate communication about the dangers of driver fatigue and other road hazards while supporting the recommendations stemming from driver fatigue root cause analyses.
