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Less risks in freight transport and an increase in road safety are the central goals of the „DEKRA Fit & Safe“ program. This concept for occupational health promotion is specifically aimed at professional drivers and has been further developed by DEKRA experts to meet the specific requirements of the industry. New additions include language versions in German, English, Polish, and Russian, as well as a compact basic variant that particularly targets small and medium-sized enterprises.
Health Promotion for Professional Drivers
The „Fit & Safe“ program was developed to address the unique challenges faced by professional drivers and logistics companies. According to Johannes Hopp, Head of Occupational Medicine & Corporate Health Management at DEKRA, professional drivers are often exposed to high occupational stress, which can lead to unhealthy behaviors and associated physical and mental complaints. The most common health issues include cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, and diet-related illnesses. Hopp emphasizes that poor health not only affects the personal well-being of drivers but can also negatively influence driving behavior, thereby increasing the risk of accidents.
The program aims to enhance road safety while simultaneously reducing driver downtime. This could also help mitigate demographic change and the shortage of skilled workers in the industry.
Modular Structure and Flexible Use
During the development phase of „DEKRA Fit & Safe,“ truck drivers and logistics companies were actively involved to determine the actual requirements. The results show that long and irregular working hours, high time pressure, lack of sleep, and changing work environments pose significant stressors. The program offers flexible, location-independent, and voluntary use for drivers and involves the entire company.
The concept consists of three steps:
- Awareness: Entrepreneurs, managers, and dispatchers are made aware of health issues through workshops and interviews. A current analysis is conducted via questionnaires.
- Intensive Program: Over a period of at least twelve weeks, professional drivers receive practical knowledge on topics such as healthy sleep, stress management, nutrition, and training. An accompanying web app provides videos, audio formats, and a digital dashboard.
- Sustainable Integration: If desired, a personal health coach accompanies participants throughout the program.
A new basic variant has been introduced, focusing on the intensive program. This cost-effective solution is aimed at companies that want to quickly and efficiently impart health-related knowledge to their drivers, particularly in small and medium-sized logistics firms.
The evaluation of program data is conducted transparently and in compliance with data protection regulations via a digital dashboard. Additionally, DEKRA offers a digital connection to further services, such as the European network for medical roadside assistance „DocStop.“
The program promises numerous benefits, including increased employee satisfaction and an improved corporate image through demonstrated care. The formats are temporally flexible and the modern web app allows access to tips on nutrition and stress management. Individual support from online health coaches is also possible.
