When Trucking Meets a Virus: Drivers' Health Guide

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As the world is taking a step back to contain the spread of COVID-19, also known as Coronavirus, truck drivers are taking a step forward. With our society relying on timely deliveries of medicine, food, and other necessities, it’s important to keep truck drivers safe and healthy.

Common Sense For Uncertain Times

Here are 5 tips on how to stay safe during a viral outbreak while driving a rig:

Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Studies have found that people touch their faces more than 16 times per hour. Keeping your hands germ-free is one of the best bets to avoid a viral infection. This basic procedure seems logical and self-explanatory, until you witness dozens of people leaving a truck stop bathroom without washing their hands. Gross, we know.
Keep your truck sanitized. Antibacterial wipes should be in your vehicle at all times, not just when there’s a deadly disease on the loose. Use those to wipe off your steering wheel, door handles, and pretty much anything you touch. Use a can of disinfectant spray to apply on your sheets, blankets, and pillows every time you leave your truck. This way you come back to a safe environment.
Practice social distancing. As a driver, you don’t interact with as many people as other occupations, so this one should be a fairly simple step. Avoid eating out, try to fill up your tank at night if possible, and avoid close contact with workers at the docks.
Use hand sanitizer after you touch money, paperwork, and after you take off your PPE for fueling and truck inspections. Some might find extra precautions like this excessive, but as the saying goes, it’s better be safe than sorry.
Be responsible. Don’t be a hero and go to work if you’re not feeling well. According to the World Health Organization, if you have a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, you should seek medical attention and stay home. Side note: if you follow the first 4 tips, your chances of using this one are minimal.

Gift Others With Level-Headedness

The real panic starts only if you stop. Thank you for being on the front line of this national emergency; you are the true heroes. Stay safe and healthy!