Ensuring Transportation Worker Safety During the 2020 Holiday Season In the field of transportation, distractions can be deadly—even those that generally go unseen. By Devin PartidaDec 14, 2020 It’s safe to say that no one is operating at full steam right now. People are stressed and worried, and for good reason, considering the current state of the world. This isn’t necessarily detrimental to some professions—it simply means that work tasks might take longer or become more involved. However, in the field of transportation, distractions can be deadly—even those that generally go unseen. Current events and more localized happenings can bring on fear, isolation, anxiety and even depression. Society is experiencing quite the downturn, and not just because of COVID-19. Shipping and retail fulfillment workers have it rough right now. With major supply issues, increasing demand, concerns about COVID-19 and various other factors, personal and mental health can fall by the wayside. There are also layoffs, economic shifts, climate issues and tumultuous politics. All these things can distract and bring down people’s spirits, ultimately resulting in a significant performance hit, especially in the transportation sector. These concerns raise the questions: What can be done? What actions can employers and workers take to ensure optimal safety? 1. Equip Appropriately It may seem silly to point out the obvious, but workers should be wearing the proper protective gear, warm clothing or assistive apparel depending on the task. For example, long-haul truckers may want to wear moisture-wicking gloves to keep their hands warm and dry. Warehouse employees should be wearing helmets, highly visible vests and any additional protective gear required for their duties. Believe it or not, it’s easy to get swept up in the moment and forget some of the necessities, protective equipment included. Double-check to make sure workers have everything crucial for a safe, productive day. Administrators should continually provide workers with the equipment and gear they need, which may require regular audits to check the conditions of existing or assigned items. Trucks and company-issued vehicles should always undergo contingent review, service and repair cycles. Let's block ads! (Why?)