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Examination of the safety climate and health culture within trucking companies in British Columbia and Canada: An exploratory study

This study investigates the prevalence and characteristics of health, safety, and wellness (HS&W) programs within trucking companies in British Columbia (BC). Truck drivers face significant health risks due to long hours, irregular schedules, poor work environments, and chronic fatigue, which contribute to accidents and health issues. Using online surveys, researchers gathered data from both truck drivers and managers across BC's trucking industry to assess the availability of HS&W programs and their alignment with best practices. Results indicated that only 31.1% of companies offered a workplace health promotion program, with wellness offerings often fragmented and inconsistent. The study found high awareness of safety, but a disconnect between safety culture and health culture within companies. Additionally, fatigue, sleep disorders, and chronic conditions like high blood pressure were prevalent among drivers. Recommendations emphasize the need for integrated, comprehensive HS&W programs to improve driver health, safety, and overall well-being.

Principal Applicant: Mamdouh Shubair (University of Northern BC)
Funding Awarded: $49,050 (Innovation at Work)

Competition Year: 2017 File type: PDF (206 KB) Asset type: Research Research: RS2017-IG05