Delivery drivers can get exposed to dangerous levels of heat during their work day. “UPS workers have shared photographs that show thermometer readings of up to 150 degrees in the backs of their trucks,” reports the New York Times in an article titled, “UPS Drivers Say ‘Brutal’ Heat Is Endangering Their Lives.”  A “string of heat-related illnesses among the drivers” – including several deaths – has renewed calls to improve working conditions. 

Most independent delivery drivers use their own vehicles with air conditioning, but that doesn’t mean the problem is solved.  Not all drivers can afford the extra fuel it takes to keep vehicles cool – especially when you are getting in and out so many times a day.  Not all can afford the repairs and maintenance necessary to keep the A/C working.  Many drive vans and trucks with cargo areas that aren’t temperature controlled.  And many spend significant time outside their vehicles, exposed to the heat.

As the Times reports, “scientists have no doubt that heat waves around the world are becoming hotter, more frequent and longer lasting.“  The 2018 National Climate Assessment found that heat waves have tripled in number since the 1960’s and the season for heat waves is now 45 days longer.

In profiling the stories of several delivery drivers who died or became seriously ill from heat exposure, the article describes a number of strategies to protect yourself:

• Stock your vehicle with “water, ice, electrolyte replacement beverages and fruit.”
• “wear hats and get in the shade”
• “stay hydrated and take…rest breaks”
• Call for help when you feel ill (heat causes disorientation, so chances are you are worse off than you realize)

UPS also provides its employees with safety training – as does A4DD, where members can get a certificate for heat safety training (under Safety & Wellness courses) for as little as five bucks.  A4DD members also can get FREE information on proper hydration for transportation workers.

Please help A4DD prevent more drivers from collapsing on the job.  Email us your stories about delivering in the heat ([email protected] – or use the A4DD.org Contact Us page).  We will share them while protecting your privacy and not using your name or other identifying information.

Let’s learn from each other and from your fellow drivers at UPS and the Postal service to take the heat seriously.  Summer’s not over yet.