Trucker Health: Seating Comfort for any Journey

Seating comfort is not just about the driver’s well-being. In fact, it can be a key factor in recruiting and retaining reliable and efficient drivers, as well as increasing your workers’ productivity. While your truck's mechanical system and truck body go through routine maintenance, repairs, and upgrades, seating comfort is often overlooked. 
 

Understanding driver risk with improper seating

According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, one of the top trucking hazards is injuries sustained from prolonged seating. Truck drivers are faced with unique challenges on the road battling stress, fatigue, and the physical and mental demands of working long hours. Remaining seated for hours a day is not good on the body and can lead to:

• Back and shoulder pains, sprains and injuries
• Hip pain  and injury
• Consistent body aches and pains
• Higher risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders
• Higher risk of sustaining multiple injuries from prolonged muscle fatigue and inactivity 

Some of the most common issues reported by drivers are foot cramps, stiff neck, low back pain, shoulder aches, and poor posture. Sitting for long periods can also affect blood flow to the legs and feet and cause discomfort at pressure points such as the buttocks, lower back, and legs.
 

Comfort features to consider

Comfort riding goes beyond the quality of the seats to encompass the overall features of the truck that enhances the driving experience. As part of Peterbilt's commitment to providing the highest standards in driver comfort, Peterbilt seats on new trucks and pre-owned models are designed for comfortable riding with back and shoulder support, quality materials, adjustable headrest and more. Peterbilt's comfortable seating is also supported by ergonomic features such as a dashboard that is easy to reach, a steering wheel design that helps maintain good driver posture and a homey cab interior.

To help you improve driving comfort, we've created the guide below on ergonomic features to look for when choosing a new truck or upgrading your seating system:

• A seat with adjustable seat height, cushion angle, back tilt and distance between the driver and the steering wheel
• A seat and steering wheel adjustment that can support the entire length of the driver's thighs
• A spacious headroom to prevent drivers from slouching or bumping their heads
• A contoured and adjustable seat cushion for better weight distribution to minimize discomfort at pressure points
• Seat materials that allow for thermal comfort, minimal wear and tear and prevent drivers from sliding
• Adjustable backrest for lumbar and shoulder support. The backrest should be at shoulder height and allow contact for the full length of the driver's back
• An adjustable seat belt that can be moved up or down and customized to the driver's height and comfort
• A well-designed dashboard that makes it convenient for the driver to adjust controls as needed

An ergonomically-designed layout allows the driver to reach the pedals, controls and steering wheel without needing to stretch the legs and arms. Drivers should be able to see gauges, mirrors and the road ahead without straining. 
 

Tips for improving driver comfort 

Along with a smart seating system, drivers can prevent back pain and minimize aches with the following tips:

• Be mindful of posture and know when you start to slump your shoulders unconsciously
• When taking breaks, be sure to get out of the truck to stretch and walk
• Exercise regularly to maintain strong abdominal muscles, which helps support the back
• Use a lower back cushion for extra support
• Adjust the seat so that knees are aligned with or lower than the hips when driving
• Avoid leaning to one side
• Avoid driving with a wallet or other items in your back pockets

Spreading awareness of the physical risks that truck drivers are exposed to helps raise industry standards. At Brandt, we are committed to safety, innovation and quality in our people, products, services, and facilities. Check out our monthly Peterbilt parts & service promotions and learn more about Peterbilt models that improve driver comfort.
 

This article is intended to provide recommendations and should not replace expert advice from a certified dietitian or medical professional.