HGV Drivers: How to Operate Responsibly During the Pandemic

The Coronavirus pandemic has had an astronomical effect on the world as we know it, with many industries having to completely change the way that they operate in light of restrictions, health and safety precautions and lockdown measures in place. 

There are many industries that cannot pivot to working from home or working remotely, and many key workers who have still had to do their jobs while adjusting to the pandemic way of life. Unsurprisingly, HGV drivers are included in those key workers who have continued to operate throughout the COVID-19 crisis and will continue to do so - however, there are a number of steps which can be taken in order to ensure the safety of drivers, their families and customers during these unprecedented times. 

Here’s how HGV drivers can operate responsibly during the pandemic.

Gloves

Wearing protective gloves is the first step to ensure that you’re keeping yourself safe while driving a HGV vehicle during a pandemic. This will ensure that when handling goods, you won’t be directly touching any surfaces where you could contract the virus, and that simultaneously, you aren’t at risk of transferring anything yourself. 

For extra protection and safety, you could change your disposable gloves in between each delivery or customer!

Masks

Face masks have become a vitally important part of pandemic life, and as a HGV driver, wearing one is essential to operate responsibly. You won’t need to wear one while operating your HGV alone, but at any point where you’ll come into contact with a customer or where you’ll be leaving the van, wearing a face mask will help to keep you and others safe. 

Social distancing

As well as wearing your face mask, you should adhere to social distancing at all times and stay 2 meters away when facing any customers. 

Change clothes 

It’s a good idea to change from your work clothes immediately upon getting home, before washing them ready for your next shift. When mixing with a variety of people through work, making sure that your clothes are kept clean and washed means that you are protecting yourself and your family should you come in contact with the virus at any stage. 

Following the rules 

HGV drivers have a responsibility to adhere to the latest government advice while working thanks to their continued proximity to the general public through their work. Make sure that you are familiar with the most up to date guidance and are sticking to the rules where possible.

Following these steps and adhering to the government advice will ensure that HGV drivers can continue to work safely and efficiently while protecting themselves and others during the pandemic.