How can truckers stay healthy during COVID-19

2020 has been a whirlwind, just as we thought things were slowly improving, it is now flu season and COVID-19 numbers have been rising around the nation. One positive from this year is that truck drivers are getting recognition for their hard work and everything else they do! 

Now it is common that everyone wears masks everywhere, hand sanitizers are readily available, everyone is socially distant and areas are constantly being cleaned. Truck drivers are essential workers, and it is important for them to take care of themselves as well. 

How drivers can stay healthy this season 

The first is to have good hygiene, regularly washing hands with soap and water helps reduce the spread of germs and viruses. As part of the trucker lifestyle, carrying personal protective equipment (PPE) is imperative. In this kit, you want to be sure to have extra masks, wipes, gloves and hand sanitizer. Sunglasses can also protect droplets from entering your eyes. 

Part of the trucker lifestyle is going to gas stations, rest areas and eating out. These are all public outings, so remember to take the steps to be safe! When filling up at a gas station, bring along an old shirt to avoid touching the pump and keypad. As always, when you are finished immediately wash your hands or use hand sanitizer. 

When you use public restrooms, avoid touching the walls and doors, use paper towels or napkins to open the doors! If you take showers at the truck stops, bring all your own shampoo and body soap. Also, towel drying is the safest way to dry yourself and hair. A hair dryer or hand dryer will blow whatever is on the counter around and you run the risk of it entering into your mouth, nose and eyes. Remember that bacteria and viruses cannot be seen! 

The trucker lifestyle entails many greetings with others. Typically, this is met with a handshake, but with our new normal, consider other ways. Other options include a wave, fist bump or be honest and let the person know that you are not comfortable with contact greetings. Everyone will understand! 

As an essential worker, it is your job to provide for the world. That does not mean you can forget about yourself. If you are feeling any symptoms, quarantine yourself and get tested. The common symptoms are fever, cough and shortness or breath. Distancing yourself protects other people, their families and will help slow the spread. 

TransWood prioritizes the safety of all their employees, from on the road wiping to sanitizing cabs. We are committed to health, safety and security.  Our excellence is achieved through superior systems, training and dedication. Contact us today to learn how we can help you.