Logistics UK is urging transport operators and drivers to prioritise heatwave safety to help commercial drivers cope with the ‘new normal’ of extreme summer temperatures.

The trade body’s Thrive campaign has released essential safety and welfare guidance to help drivers stay cool in the heat and continue to operate safely.

Maddi Solloway-Price, interim deputy director of policy at Logistics UK said: “Professional drivers play an invaluable role in transporting goods around the country all year round, making sure communities have what they need, regardless of what the weather is like.

“However, as heatwaves become more commonplace, it is essential that employers make sure practical measures are in place to support driver welfare, and that drivers are aware of the actions they can take to look after themselves.”

Logistics UK’s Thrive initiative launched last year, offering an online hub dedicated to mental health and wellbeing. It provides logistics professionals with trusted resources on all areas of wellbeing including nutrition and fitness, with expert insight provided by Callum Jordan, a Level 3 personal trainer and Thrive contributor.

Jordan warned that heatwaves are a real challenge for those who have to carry out strenuous tasks such as lifting heavy items for work.

“It’s crucial that drivers make sure to take regular breaks throughout the day and keep hydrated, drinking little and often. Continue to follow best practice for lifting when moving loads, including being mindful of sweat and how it can make things more slippery, and remember that, even though it’s hot outside, wearing the correct protective clothing (including safety gloves) will help to prevent accidents, whatever the weather.”

Solloway-Price continued: “Thrive offers expert advice distilled into simple tips that drivers and other logistics workers can implement easily. Having a frozen bottle of water available in the cab or in the staff fridge for breaks, for instance, will keep workers hydrated while they work.

“Ultimately, it’s about ensuring that health and wellbeing remain front of mind for the logistics businesses and in supporting their teams who are out working in this heat, keeping industries and the country moving.”

Thrive’s tips on how logistics workers can keep cool include: 

• Stay hydrated: drink water regularly throughout the day and not just when you feel thirsty – in fact, feeling thirsty is a sign that you are already dehydrated!
• Wear appropriate clothing: where possible opt for lightweight, loose-fitting and light-coloured clothing.
• Consider when strenuous activity should be done: avoid heavy lifting or intensive tasks during the hottest parts of the day where possible.
• Use cooling aids such as ice packs, cooling towels or mist sprays.
• Don’t leave plastic bottles of water in direct sunlight; they can become unsafe to drink as the UV rays degrade the plastic. Use a refillable bottle for drinks instead.
• Avoid caffeine and energy drinks, which can worsen dehydration.
• Know the signs of heat-related illness. Look out for:

o    Dizziness

o    Headaches

o    Excessive sweating

o    Muscle cramps

o    Nausea

o    Confusion

For more hints and tips on driver health, please access the Thrive hub here.