The Connection Between Ergonomics, Productivity and Safety in Trucking

Industry · 3 min read · By Buzznerd Team

How cab and equipment ergonomics reduce fatigue, boost productivity, and prevent injuries.

Ergonomics may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about life in the trucking industry, but the fact is that ergonomics can have a big impact on everything from productivity to safety. If you haven't considered how ergonomics is affecting your fleet, drivers, and bottom line, consider the following.

Driver fatigue is one of the biggest contributing factors in accidents and injuries on the road. A driver who can't perform their duties comfortably is more likely to experience fatigue, and that fatigue can take their attention off the road, lower performance, and slow reaction times — detrimental to everyone's safety. To combat it, evaluate the ergonomics of each cab against the needs of each driver; some may need different rigs depending on size and reach, and upfitting trucks with ergonomic seats and steering wheels adds comfort on the road.

Comfortable drivers tend to produce value for longer, require fewer breaks, and give more focused attention to tasks. Ergonomics and productivity go hand in hand.

Seats and steering wheels are obvious choices, but plenty of other areas around a rig can be enhanced. Ramps and door access should extend easily with built-in sliders and require minimal bending — pull-out ramps also reduce snow, ice, and rain accumulation and should accommodate the right dolly equipment. Ladders and racks should be reachable without effort, with hydraulic assists where possible to avoid manual lifting.

Steps and handles should be sturdy and contoured for grip; newer ergonomic designs make roll-up-door and grab handles easier to hold. Evaluate step height per driver, and consider open safety-tread steps over running boards, particularly where snow accumulates.