The Importance of Enough Sleep for Truck Drivers in New Zealand

The trucking industry is an anytime operation with tight deadlines that puts many truck drivers under pressure and makes them struggle to get enough sleep. Since numerous studies show that sleep plays a vital role in both mental and physical health, it is important for truck drivers to get enough sleep if they want safe journeys and high-quality work. Here are two main reasons why enough sleep matters for truck drivers.

Sleep influences mental health

Studies show that sleep affects the brain. Sleeping enough helps the brain work properly. The brain prepares for the next day while we sleep. A lack of sleep can negatively affect parts of the brain. It not only slows down reaction times, but is also linked to depression and risk-taking behaviour. Since truck drivers must always be alert to prevent accidents, they need enough sleep to help the brain work effectively over the long haul.

Sleep influences physical health

Sleep is important for physical health. Enough sleep supports good health, while a long-term lack of sleep increases the risk of many health problems, such as heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and stroke. Truck drivers can be called to work at any time of day, including midnight or early morning, which may cause ongoing sleep deficiency. As a result, their health can suffer over time. Truck drivers therefore need to make sure they get enough sleep to minimise health problems.

Tips for Truck Drivers to get enough sleep:

• Choose a quiet place to sleep to avoid noise disturbance.
• Don’t eat too much before bed, so you sleep well.
• Organise your work schedule and try to sleep in your spare time.