Conditions of Work that Impact the Health Behaviors of Long-Haul Truck Drivers.

Aryal, Ashamsa; Casteel, Carri; Janssen, Brandi; Fethke, Nathan; Buikema, Brenda; Cho, Hyunkeun Ryan; TePoel, Megan; Rohlman, Diane · J Occup Environ Med · 2025

Level V

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Abstract

We sought to describe conditions of work that impact the health of long-haul truck drivers in the context of the Worker Well-being Framework. We conducted semistructured interviews with 33 incoming and current workers, including drivers. Interviews were analyzed and categorized into the five domains of the Worker Well-being Framework. The physical environment contributes to unhealthy behaviors (eg, limited access to healthy foods, physical activity, noise). Drivers emphasized that industry policies and culture prioritized customer service over worker well-being. Drivers and students had different perceptions about personal responsibility and motivation regarding health behaviors, with students focusing on individual solutions instead of organizational solutions. These insights are essential for developing strategies to create healthier work environments and improve the well-being of long-haul truck drivers.

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