Occupational Risk Prevention Measures for Delivery Drivers

According to data provided by the National Institute for Safety and Health at Work (INSST), Spain recorded a total of 75,979 work-related traffic accidents in 2023, the highest figure in the country since 2019. Drivers and machinery operators are the professionals most exposed to this type of accident, accounting for 36.3% of the total. Looking more closely at the sectors, we find that the most affected workers are those in postal companies, with 2,089.3 accidents per 100,000 professionals, followed by those in land transport companies, with 583.1 per 100,000.

Official data show that the occupational risks faced by delivery drivers are higher than those faced by professionals in other sectors. Their work combines periods of driving with walking to deliver packages, exposing them to different workplace situations. During their work, it is essential to adopt protective measures that prevent potential accidents and stressful circumstances that may lead to job dissatisfaction.

What factors determine the occupational risks faced by delivery drivers? 

Spain’s Occupational Risk Prevention Act establishes the rules and obligations for protecting workers’ health and safety. One of its main points is the assessment of risks according to the activity performed by the professional and the specific needs of their position. It is important to understand the most common occupational risks faced by delivery drivers in order to take the most appropriate measures to prevent them. 

1. Environmental and traffic factors

A large proportion of accidents suffered by delivery drivers are related to external factors, such as poor road conditions, rain and reduced visibility, traffic congestion or violations by other drivers.  

2. Vehicle condition 

Delivery drivers must have vehicles that make it easier to access delivery locations and are sized to allow manoeuvring in small spaces. An old vehicle or one with poor maintenance multiplies the risks faced by the worker. 

3. Ergonomic risks 

These workers spend a large part of their working day behind the wheel, dealing with stressful situations and maintaining the same body position for long periods. Likewise, when making deliveries, they often carry heavy packages and adopt awkward postures while transporting, loading and unloading them. All of this creates ergonomic risks that can cause injuries. 

4. Lack of concentration, fatigue and stress 

Delivery drivers must make their deliveries on time and in a volume agreed with the company. Sometimes, meeting these schedules means prioritising speed over safety, leading to distractions while driving or when getting out of or into the vehicle. Stress and tiredness increase the risks of workers suffering an accident. 

Effective occupational risk prevention measures for delivery drivers 

By being aware of and addressing the main occupational risks faced by delivery drivers, we will be able to implement various measures to help prevent them, thereby improving workers’ wellbeing and safety. 

1. Specific training on appropriate postures 

One of the main prevention measures for professional drivers is maintaining a proper posture behind the wheel. Setting the seat back at a 90º angle, slightly bending the legs to support the body correctly in the seat, or positioning the arms in front of the steering wheel at an angle of around 130º reduces the risk of ergonomic injuries. 

In addition, for delivery drivers, it is important to know the correct techniques for lifting and transporting loads in order to avoid musculoskeletal problems during package delivery. The product-handling stage must be carried out using appropriate movements that minimise the chances of muscle disorders. 

2. Use of suitable footwear and PPE 

Rain, extreme temperatures, uneven or slippery surfaces, and potential obstacles in the street increase the likelihood of an accident during package transport and delivery processes. Professional footwear for delivery drivers is highly effective in preventing this. Slip-resistant soles, reinforced toe caps and waterproof materials help reduce slips and impacts during work.

In addition, it is advisable to have other PPE, such as protective gloves for handling items safely or reflective vests, which improve workers’ visibility when they get out of the vehicle and in poorly lit areas.  

3. Route planning and rest periods

Stress is the main cause of many of the occupational risks faced by delivery drivers. Proper time management helps mitigate it. There are technological solutions that make it possible to plan routes while avoiding areas with traffic jams, road closures or traffic incidents. With their help, the stress associated with delivery delays is reduced and customer satisfaction also increases. 

Another very important aspect of this planning is establishing rest periods with scheduled breaks to prevent fatigue from reducing concentration or affecting reaction time in unforeseen circumstances. 

4. Knowledge of driving techniques and road safety training 

Providing workers with defensive driving and road safety courses enables them to learn to identify risks on the road and anticipate dangerous situations. In addition, driving efficiently slows vehicle wear, reducing accidents and financial and reputational losses for the company. 

Implementing occupational risk prevention measures improves productivity and minimises the risks of accidents and injuries among delivery drivers. Among these measures, using appropriate work footwear increases worker protection and enhances their satisfaction. At Shoes For Crews, we can help you find the most suitable footwear for your team of delivery drivers. Contact us and we will provide all the information you need.