Ergonomic and design-related risks are a significant concern for road transport workers and are closely linked to long-term health, safety and job sustainability. The 2019 ILO Guidelines on the promotion of decent work and road safety highlight that poorly designed vehicles, equipment and work environments can contribute to musculoskeletal disorders, fatigue and reduced alertness. Drivers often spend extended periods in static seated positions, exposed to vibration, noise and limited opportunities for movement, all of which can lead to chronic pain and injury.
Vehicle design is a key factor. Inadequate seat support, poorly positioned controls and limited cabin space can increase strain on the body, particularly during long journeys. Loading and unloading tasks, where drivers are required to handle heavy goods without appropriate equipment, further increase the risk of injury. In many cases, workplaces such as warehouses, depots and rest areas are not designed with drivers’ needs in mind, lacking safe access, adequate facilities or appropriate infrastructure.
These risks are often compounded by work organisation and time pressures, which may limit opportunities for rest, stretching or recovery. The ILO Guidelines emphasise that addressing ergonomic risks requires a preventative approach, including improved vehicle design, appropriate equipment, and working conditions that support drivers’ health and reduce cumulative physical strain over time