Informality and precarity of work – driven by misclassification, low wages and performance-based/piece-rate pay – create occupational safety and health risks. These systemic pressures force truck drivers to meet unrealistic targets and work excessive hours, leading to chronic fatigue, high stress levels and increased accident risk.
By denying drivers stable employment status and social protections, the industry compromises the physical and mental wellbeing of its workforce, endangering the public sharing the road and exposing itself to risks of human and labour rights abuses.
Research consistently links these economic pressures to high injury rates, musculoskeletal disorders, and chronic mental health problems driven by sustained stress and sleep deprivation. In road transport, where the workplace is shared with other road users, these pressures directly impact public safety.
Explore risks
Fatigue
Excessive or poorly controlled working hours are a core human rights and safety risk in road transport. Long driving hours,
Temperatures + Climate
Severe physical exhaustion, dehydration and cognitive impairment resulting from extreme heat can significantly increase the risk of road accidents and supply chain disruptions.
Ergonomics + Design
Drivers often spend extended periods in static seated positions, exposed to vibration, noise and limited opportunities for movement.
Mental Health
Stress, fatigue and anxiety are common, particularly where drivers face unrealistic delivery schedules, income insecurity or pressure to meet performance targets.