Fatigue and Road Safety

Far too many professional drivers are killed or seriously injured worldwide each year due to accidents in which fatigue has played a part. In this age of globalisation workers’ conditions are getting worse. As employers try to cut costs to outbid their competitors, truck drivers are forced to queue longer and work excessive hours to be in the right place at the right time. Bus deregulation has forced tighter schedules with less time for rest breaks. Taxi deregulation has worsened taxi drivers’ employment conditions in many countries.

All transport workers have a right to decent wages, safe working conditions and proper rest. Collective action through the union is the best way to make this a reality. Since 1997, road transport workers who are members of ITF unions, have joined together every year to mark the Road Transport Action Week. The ITF message "Fatigue Kills!" has united workers around the world. In many countries, campaign activities have helped unions to change laws and have resulted in them winning improved conditions for their members.

Take Action!
2011 Action Week

Visual materials

Publications and analysis

Union campaigns on fatigue