As the summer months approach, it’s crucial to focus on ensuring the safety of your truck drivers, a concern that’s often overshadowed by the attention given to winter driving hazards. At Cromwell Trucks, a leading provider of used commercial trucks, we understand the importance of year-round driver safety.
With the rise in traffic on UK roads during the summer and the potential for unexpectedly high temperatures, it’s essential to implement measures that safeguard your drivers, whether they’re handling scaffold trucks, navigating haulage routes, or engaged in freight loading and unloading.
Pre-Trip Vehicle Checks
Commence each day by emphasising the significance of pre-trip vehicle checks. In the summer, this involves diligent monitoring of tire pressures, as elevated temperatures and under-inflated tires pose an increased risk of blowouts. Additionally, inspecting brakes becomes imperative, considering the potential for brake fading and friction loss caused by high temperatures.
Sun Exposure
Trucker’s arm may have your truck drivers being the but of a joke or two, but there is a serious side to your drivers being exposed to dangerous UV rays. Sun exposure is a serious concern for truck drivers, given the health risks associated with UV rays. There are several ways to defend against sun exposure, which can lead to skin cancer and premature skin ageing:
- Sunscreen – Apply a factor 15 or higher sunscreen to your arm and face.
- Sun sleeve – There are many variants of these that will cover just the arm or the arm and hand as well.
- Window film – Dark tints may not be allowed but special clear window films can be applied to block UV rays. The 3M Crystalline Automotive Film is an example and this reflects up to 60% of solar energy and up to 97% of the heat produced by infrared rays.
- Sunglasses – Your eyes are just as susceptible to UV rays, so your drivers should wear sunglasses with polarised lenses that filter glare.
Practice Defensive Driving Techniques
Defensive driving techniques become even more crucial during the summer, with heightened road congestion. Truck drivers should signal well in advance to alert other road users about lane changes, bearing in mind the extended blind spots of trucks compared to smaller vehicles. Adhering to the 3 points of contact rule—maintaining contact with the truck using both hands and one foot when entering or exiting—ensures safer manoeuvring.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is paramount during summer driving shifts to sustain energy levels and concentration. Encourage your drivers to consume approximately 2 litres of water throughout the day, avoiding excessive caffeine and soda intake to prevent dehydration. Incorporating electrolyte-rich foods like cucumbers, strawberries, mangoes, honey, and bananas into their diet aids in maintaining optimal hydration.
By implementing these practices, you can easily contribute to the safety and well-being of your drivers throughout the summer season. For a reliable selection of used commercial trucks, explore the offerings at Cromwell Trucks to enhance your fleet with quality vehicles. For the very best in used trucks, from tippers to curtainsiders and cranes to ex-council trucks, contact Cromwell Trucks today.