How Truck Drivers Can Protect Themselves from the Coronavirus

Read Time: 4 minutes

Finding ways to limit the rapid spread of the coronavirus is a top priority for health officials across the country. However, working from home isn't a possibility for over 1.8 million truck drivers in the United States. 

Truck drivers must find ways to protect themselves against the coronavirus while delivering essential items across the nation. 

Understanding the best ways to stay protected against such a contagious virus is critical in staying healthy and limiting the impact of the coronavirus.

Here are five essential tips that can play a vital role in protecting truck drivers during these unpredictable times.

#1) Avoid Close Contact

One of the most important tips is to avoid close contact with people. Fortunately, many truck drivers are isolated for the vast majority of the time while they travel on their route. 

However, truck drivers still maintain contact with various people, whether it is at a truck stop, restaurant, loading station, or at their destination. 

Always maintaining a safe distance while avoiding handshakes is an excellent idea to prevent the possible chance of becoming infected with the coronavirus.

#2) Clean Your Hands Often

Another critical safety tip is to always wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Keeping your hands clean is especially essential if you visit a public place.

 A hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol is also a viable option if soap and water aren't readily available. It would help if you always rubbed your hands with a hand sanitizer until it becomes dry. 

It is also a smart idea to avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth for additional protection.

#3) Keep Your Truck Clean and Use Disinfectants

Always cleaning and disinfecting the cab of your truck is essential in creating a clean environment. Using soap and water is an excellent option, and you will not have to worry about damaging the interior of your truck. 

You should always avoid using bleach unless it's on simple plastic. Hand sanitizers containing alcohol are not a good option, as it can dry out leather. 

All solvents should be avoided because they are not as effective at eliminating viruses while also potentially damaging the interior of your truck.

#4) Always Cover Your Mouth & Nose When You Cough or Sneeze

Taking the precaution of always covering your nose and mouth while you cough or sneeze is essential in limiting the spread of any virus. 

You should always keep tissues nearby and wash your hands afterward. If you don't have any available tissues, it is important to cough or sneeze into your elbow instead of using your hands. 

Face masks can also offer limited protection, as they can block the spread of liquid droplets. Unfortunately, face masks are unable to prevent smaller particles that can easily pass through the cover.

#5) Stay at Home if You Feel Sick

Under normal circumstances, many truck drivers attempt to continue to work, even if they feel unwell. However, it is critical to stay at home if you feel sick. If your symptoms deteriorate, you should always seek out medical care. 

On the other hand, going to work while you are sick can potentially spread the coronavirus and create a significant health emergency for a wide range of people. Taking the extra precaution of staying home is essential in limiting the potential spread of the coronavirus.

Visit Cargobot to Keep Up to Date with the Latest Information in the Industry

Cargobot is an organization that focuses on connecting shippers with certified nationwide carriers across the United States. The easy to use platform allows you to find top-quality drivers at the best rates without the need for a middle man. Cargobot offers real-time tracking, electronic document storage, and around the clock support.

Feel free to visit the Cargoblog to stay tuned to the latest information on the developing changes in the industry. You can also visit the Cargobot Academy for additional information or download the app on Android or iOS.

Cargobot also provides a new partnership opportunity for freight agents. We are looking to find the best independent sales agents available in the domestic freight industry. Learn more about this brand new service on our website today!