Isolation and lone working present significant safety, health and human rights risks for drivers. Truck drivers typically work alone for prolonged periods, often in remote or unfamiliar environments, with limited access to immediate assistance in the event of accidents, illness or violence. The ILO Guidelines emphasise that such conditions increase exposure to occupational hazards and reduce opportunities for supervision, communication and support.
Isolation prevents drivers from reporting unsafe conditions or seeking help, particularly where communication systems are inadequate or drivers fear retaliation. This is acute in cross-border operations, where migrant workers may not know how to access local support services or authorities.
Lone working also increases vulnerability to violence, theft and harassment, particularly when drivers are forced to rest in insecure locations due to a lack of safe parking infrastructure or are asked to guard cargo. Women drivers face heightened risks of gender-based violence and harassment in these contexts.
Isolation also contributes to psychosocial harm: stress, fatigue and mental health impacts. The ILO Guidelines highlight that these risks are compounded by long working hours and economic pressures, with cumulative impacts on driver safety and wellbeing.
For more on isolation and lone working see the Risks Across Transport guidance.