Lack of parking affects driver health; survey needs respondents

TORONTO, ON – A lack of truck parking in Southern Ontario is affecting driver health according to the preliminary results of a survey on the issue.

More than 1,000 drivers have responded to the survey on truck parking being conducted for the Ontario Ministry of Transportation to asses the needs of drivers, but the survey’s adminstrator Ted Harvey is hoping for 2,000 more to answer questions before the Feb. 28 deadline.

With more than 30,000 data points so far, the initial results of the survey show a significant lack of truck parking in Ontario is affecting drivers’ health outcomes not only by adding stress to their day, but through a lack of access to washrooms and water – something workplaces are mandated to provide for employees.

Harvey says the results of the survey may indicate a need to review what the definition of what a “workplace” is for the purposes of Ontario law, and a change to some of the conditions truckers face.

Lack of parking is also contributing to additional costs for drivers and fleets, with inflated fuel and maintenance costs, as well as lost productivity. Harvey says this may provide a barrier to entry for some, keeping would-be drivers off the road.

The survey is aiming to reach drivers from both Canada and the United States that pass through Ontario, something Harvey says presents a challenge, as U.S. drivers may not think the survey is for them.

Drivers can take the survey in English or French by following the link here.


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