PROFESSIONAL DRIVER OCCUPATIONAL RISK ASSESSMENT: CHALLENGES AND THREATS TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF ROAD TRANSPORT

This article aims to assess the occupational risks faced by truck drivers in the context of road transport development, using the Five Steps risk assessment method, which is consistent with international standards (ISO 12100, ISO 31000, ILO). The authors conducted a study to assess 23 occupational hazards faced by truck drivers. Furthermore, the authors identified the economic consequences of road accidents (employee absenteeism, compensation, and logistical losses). The highest risk levels were estimated for road collisions, fires, electrocutions, and factors related to driver stress and fatigue. These results are confirmed by statistics published by EU-OSHA and OSHA, confirming the accuracy of the risk analysis. The risk analysis demonstrates the need to implement specific preventive measures. The goal of this article is to fill a research gap in the assessment of occupational risk among truck drivers and to propose effective preventive measures, which constitute the basis for developing new occupational safety standards in the analyzed profession. It should be emphasized that risk assessment also allows for the identification of significant implications for shaping industry policy, which can contribute to reducing the risk of road accidents and improving driver safety, which is crucial for the efficiency and sustainable development of road transport.