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FEATURE


“Studies often show the biggest motivator for


employees is feeling valued and involved in the business.”


different with rising traffic levels, different road layouts and an increase in vulnerable road users such as cyclists as commuters seek to avoid public transport.


Meanwhile, concern over the state of the economy could lead to anxiety about job security. Your staff may be part of families where other members have been made redundant, and thus are now the sole earner.


FATIGUE There has been a huge increase in the demand for


home deliveries with many firms currently recruiting large numbers of new drivers. This additional demand could increase the chances of drivers suffering fatigue as they try to keep up with a packed delivery schedule. The impact of fatigue on a person’s mental and physical health includes stress, irritability, reduced alertness, minimal vigilance, and lower productivity, and sleep deprivation from the anxieties already discussed could make the problem worse.


WHAT MEASURES SHOULD EMPLOYERS


CONSIDER? Firstly, employers should provide adequate protection against COVID-19 and follow social distancing guidelines in the workplace, to reduce fears and anxieties associated with the pandemic. Studies often show the biggest motivator for employees is feeling valued and involved in the business, so making sure that there are communication processes in place to support staff and manage their wellbeing could ensure productivity and business resilience is maximised.


At the same time, Dr. Lisa Dorn advises against putting too much pressure on the workforce, and to make suitable modifications and adjustments to workloads and routines. Adding to workloads during a time of stress could be counterproductive. Also consider the capacity of each employee, to see if they are overworking due to fears over income or job loss. It is important to reassure drivers that they should take regular breaks and rest when tired.


Businesses could consider refresher training, skills guidance, and offer support to ensure that drivers remain confident enough to undertake their duties, especially if they are returning to a workplace which looks very different to before. Confidence is a key aspect of having happy and healthy drivers, and will result in a better performing workforce.


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Many firms are now implementing new policies around issues such as vehicle sanitisation and home working that they intend to be permanent, and not just for the short term. Get staff involved in the development of these policies to ensure they are workable and get maximum staff buy-in as quickly as possible.


Let drivers know that their colleagues are able to support them, and empower people – including their loved ones, friends and family - to recognise signs of trouble. Also look for the indicators of stress, which include being quieter than usual or more argumentative. It is important to make sure that your drivers feel they have someone to talk to if they are feeling isolated or alone. Maintaining a healthy peer support culture helps people feel involved in their business, and enhances a sense of purpose. People who are engaged in their work are happier and more productive - leading to better workforce retention.


RETURNING TO THE ‘NEW NORMAL’ Whatever the next phase looks like, getting back to it


will be a challenge. Drivers will need additional support and guidance to maintain mental and physical health. Employers should develop robust driving for work policies that put wellbeing and mental health at its centre. Good mental and physical health improves productivity, creating better performance and improving the financial strength of the business for the journey ahead.


Employers need to recognise the signs early before they become a serious issue among the workforce.


Co-workers are often able to spot signs of worry, stress, anxiety, or fatigue better than those in leadership positions, so it’s good practice to consider directing employees towards resources where that can help with wellbeing solutions. For example, the Samaritans’ Wellbeing in the Workplace tool enables people to identify potential signs of concern amongst colleagues.


For managing driver mental health, HR managers and directors should direct their drivers to free resources provided by charities such as Samaritans, CALM or Mind, who offer online and telephone advice. At the same time, Driving For Better Business has developed and hosted a number of resources on wellbeing in its COVID-19 toolkit.


https://www.drivingforbetterbusiness.com/covid-19/ www.drivingforbetterbusiness.com/ 43


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