10 Summer Driver Wellbeing Tips
As a logistics driver recruitment agency that puts safety and compliance first, Employ Recruitment knows that driver wellbeing is more than just a nice-to-have it’s a core part of operational success. Increased heat, traffic congestion, disrupted rest and fatigue all come into play during the warmer months. That’s why we’re encouraging clients to take a proactive approach to HGV driver wellbeing, especially during summer. Here are ten practical, safety-focused tips to keep your drivers in top condition and your business moving. You can download our top tips here.
1. Prioritise Hydration Throughout the Day
Dehydrated drivers are more likely to lose concentration and become fatigued. Encourage them to keep water easily accessible and sip throughout their shift.
2. Support Quality Sleep
Long daylight hours can affect sleep routines. Be mindful of shift planning to allow for proper rest, especially during heatwaves.
3. Maintain Air-Con and Ventilation Systems
Cab temperatures can rise quickly. Ensure air-conditioning units are functional and advise drivers to ventilate their cabs when parked.
4. Minimise Sun Glare Hazards
Sun glare is a common summer road risk. Advise drivers to clean windscreens regularly and use appropriate sunglasses to reduce eye strain.
5. Encourage Physical Movement During Breaks
Short walks or stretches during rest stops help improve circulation and alertness, supporting overall driver health and safety.
6. Provide Healthy Snack Options
Swap sugary or high-fat snacks for wholegrain, high-protein options that keep energy levels steady.
7. Recognise the Signs of Fatigue
Tired drivers are unsafe drivers. Train your team to spot early signs and create an open culture around requesting breaks or additional rest.
8. Share Regular Wellbeing Messages
Use newsletters, posters or in-cab materials to keep wellbeing top of mind. Small reminders can make a big difference.
9. Support Mental Health as Part of Safety
Wellbeing is about the mind as much as the body. Let drivers know what support is available if they’re feeling overwhelmed or isolated.
10. Make Wellbeing a Shared Responsibility
When managers model good habits taking breaks, drinking water, planning shifts safely drivers are more likely to follow suit.
Why Driver Wellbeing Matters for Compliance and Retention
Driver health isn’t just a HR concern it’s a compliance, performance and retention issue. A driver who is well-rested, mentally supported and physically healthy is more likely to drive safely, remain engaged, and stay in the job longer.
Employ Recruitment builds wellbeing into every aspect of our recruitment and placement process from onboarding and shift planning to ongoing support and wellbeing campaigns. Our focus on driver compliance and safety is what helps us deliver consistently for clients not just during peak season, but all year round.
Want to know more about how we manage driver wellbeing and compliance? We’re here to help you build a workforce that’s safer, healthier and ready for whatever the road brings, see our campaigns here.
