Trucking is the backbone of our country. Without trucking, most things we enjoy on a daily basis wouldn’t be so easily accessible. Think about the millions of products in the stores of your town. Most of these products were delivered or transported by a truck at some point. Keeping our truck drivers safe is a key factor to making sure this cycle continues.
Paramount Freight Systems cares about our truck drivers and wants to make sure you know about the most common injuries and how to prevent them. Read further to learn about the best techniques to help you prevent trucking injuries.
Common Injuries
Some of the most common injuries truck drivers face are muscle sprains, falls, falling objects and improper lifting techniques. Since truck drivers can be injured while driving and loading or unloading freight, they need to be extra cautious and aware of their surroundings.
Drivers are on the road for long periods of time, and this can take a significant toll on your body. The consistent vibrations and jerking of the truck can also contribute to some of these injuries. Many truck drivers sit for long periods of time, which can result in significant back and neck pain. You can also develop shoulder pain and carpal tunnel syndrome from steering the truck. Injuries aren’t all upper body either; you can damage joints in the lower body by jumping down from the truck cab, instead of stepping down slowly.
Tips for Preventing Injuries
- Frequently break to stretch and take a quick rest. If you drink a lot of caffeine or take stimulants, your body will eventually face the “crash” and exhaustion will take over.
- Whenever lifting heavy objects, use mechanical lifts or wear a back brace for support.
- Make sure the loading areas are clean and dry to prevent slips and falls.
- Try to use at least three points of contact when entering or exiting the truck. Make sure not to jump down or sling yourself up, which leaves room for slips or falls.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Stay fit by exercising regularly – at least basic stretching about three times a week.
- Use proper lifting techniques – bend at the knees, not your back.
- Avoid repetitive motion.
- Take care of yourself on days off – get extra rest, eat well and continue to exercise.
At Paramount Freight Systems, we care about our drivers and their well-being. We want to make sure you are safe while out on the road, and following these tips will ensure you stay safe. If you have any questions about common safety techniques, please contact us. Also, connect with us via our social media networks.
Common #truckdriver injuries are easy to avoid if you follow these tips http://t.co/AZ2YPTMJYh
— Paramount Freight (@DrivePFS) January 9, 2015
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