Driver Wellness Nueces County Risk Management

Session Objectives Understand why wellness matters Manage fatigue and stress on the job Prevent colds and flu Avoid crime and violence Live a healthy, productive lifestyle

 Many accidents are health related, which makes wellness an important safety factor  Being healthy helps you function better on and off the job  Wellness keeps you on the job earning a paycheck  Preventing illness and disease allows you to live a more comfortable, longer, happier life Why Wellness Matters

Fatigue  Increased risk of making mistake  Inattention contributes to 50% all crashes  Fatigue is factor in 15% of fatal crashes  Fatigue affects reflexes, judgment, concentration, alertness, and mood

Managing Fatigue  Get enough sleep  Eat well-balanced meals  Keep car environment comfortable  Take periodic rest breaks  Pull over

Stress  Sources  Physical discomfort  Contributes to disease  Affects mood and safety attitude

Managing Stress  Count to 10 or take deep breaths  Listen to music  Talk about problems  Maintain a sense of humor  Exercise  Relax

Ergonomics  Carefully get in and out of your vehicle  Use good driving posture  Adjust your seat  Shift your position  Walk around and stretch on breaks  Lift and carry heavy objects properly

 Regular medical exams and screening  Eye care  Dental cleaning and checkup  Take medications as directed Preventive Health Care

Preventing Colds and Flu  Avoid direct contact with sick people  Keep your hands clean  Avoid touching face with unwashed hands  Drink plenty of fluids  Get enough sleep

Crime and Violence Prevention  Lock your vehicle  Be careful in parking lots, rest stops, and on the street  Carry a cell phone and report suspicious activity  Don’t get involved in disputes  Report any crime or violence

Wellness Basics: Which Statements Are True? Wellness has little to do with your job. Wellness involves getting preventive health care. Unmanaged stress can make you sick. There’s no effective way to avoid colds and flu in a job like yours. Fatigue is a job hazard you can’t avoid.

Wellness Basics  Do you understand:  The importance of wellness?  Fatigue and stress hazards and management?  The importance of preventive health care?  How to prevent colds and flu?  Steps to avoid crime and violence on the road?

 Lung cancer and death  Heart disease, stroke, and emphysema  Quitting reduces illness and disease Healthy Lifestyle: Smoking Millions Have Quit. You Can Too!

Healthy Lifestyle: Alcohol and Drug Abuse  Drink in moderation  Be careful when taking medications  Choose not to use illegal drugs

Healthy Lifestyle: Sleep  Develop a routine  Go to sleep and wake at the same time  Create a comfortable atmosphere  Watch what you eat and drink  Get treatment for persistent problems

Healthy Lifestyle: Weight Control  Extra weight can lead to disease  To maintain a healthy weight:  Eat a nutritious diet  Get enough physical activity  Balance calories with physical activity

Healthy Lifestyle: Nutrition  Fruits and vegetables  Whole grains  Low-fat dairy products  Lean meat, poultry, and fish  Beans, nuts, eggs  Water  Reduction of fat, cholesterol, salt, and added sugar

Eating out Pick lower-fat foods and smaller portions Go broiled or baked Order a salad or vegetables Skip dessert Pack your own meals Healthy Lifestyle: Eating Well on the Road

Healthy Lifestyle: Exercise  Tips for getting daily exercise  Walk around parking lot, or jump rope  Park further away and walk  Do sit-ups and push-ups  Have a routine for days off

Healthy Lifestyle: Family Ties  Call home frequently  Take pictures of family and friends  Make a video or DVD of yourself  Plan family activities  Keep in touch with friends

Healthy Lifestyle Choices: True or False? If you’ve smoked for a long time, healthwise it’s not worth quitting now. You should develop a routine that helps you relax and prepare for sleep. The only way to maintain a healthy weight is to eat a lot less. There’s not much you can do about healthy eating on the road.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices  Do you understand:  Why smoking and substance abuse are bad for your health?  How to get good night’s sleep?  How to maintain a healthy weight?  Proper nutrition and tips for eating healthy?  Need for regular exercise?  Importance of maintaining family ties?

Key Points to Remember Wellness is an important factor in your job and in your life. Making healthy choices will help you be safer and more productive on the job. Good health also contributes to a better, longer, happier life. Simple lifestyle choices can help you improve wellness and live a healthier life.