Eco45Hours Ltd – Our Vision Eco45hours is a revolutionary concept to offer a better working environment to Truck drivers. The scheme aims to improve mental and physical health, general fitness and to create a haven for drivers to recuperate. The initial pilot scheme will be run at Lymm services for a trial of 12 months and will offer shower, fitness and spa facilities to the drivers in a purpose built eco-friendly unit. The issue A number of government reports and consultations have identified strong support for increasing the provision of secure truck stops across the UK. For example a government consultation stated that “…current demand for lorry parking far outstrips supply” July (2011). A recent project initiated by the European Commission, SETPOS, also highlights concerns for safety of drivers and the need to create a number of secured truck parking areas in the trans-border regions. The need to improve working conditions for drivers, has also been highlighted in the DfT ‘Strategy for Lorry Parking Provision’, being shown as a desired outcome to a number of different government incentives. With strict driving regulations, drivers are forced to take a break every 4.5 hours for 45 minutes. Current provisions for drivers can be poor and many sit in the cab whilst the vehicle is idling. This increases fuel costs and doesn’t offer drivers sufficient rest or exercise. A recent study cited in a BBC article claimed that around 50% of truck drivers are above the obesity threshold. Studies have shown an association between Musculoskeletal issues and truck driving i.e. Robb and Mansfield. There have also been links found between sleep Apnoea and truck drivers, with one study finding that all 4 truck related deaths (during a 4 month period) involved the driver having undiagnosed Sleep Apnoea Disorder. Therefore providing services for drivers to increase their fitness levels and providing the opportunity to relax is paramount in order to address these issues. The benefits A reduction in CO2 emissions by decreasing the amount of time drivers spend in the cab with the engine idling during the obligatory 45 minute break. A study by the Department of Transport has shown that reducing this can decrease annual fuel costs by 1-5%, saving Llyod Fraser Group £55,250 a year and cutting CO2 emissions by 170 tonnes (based on 45 vehicles) Reducing the cost of water to service stations across the UK through recycling water used for showers to the toilets. Health benefits including: time to rest effectively, fitness through use of the gym and the ability to “switch off” during their break rather than sit in the cab of the truck. Reducing tiredness on the road and potential to decrease the number of truck related accidents. The Building The building will be constructed from 45 foot recycled containers. Creating an impactful and environmentally sustainable structure, offering rest bite services to truck drivers. Using state of the art technology and facilities to offer the drivers comfort, exercise and rest. This will include the use of solar panels to power the building, Unbescheiden hydrotherapy tubs, … How it works A driver will need to purchase or be given a pass for a double shower, in order to use the facilities. This will be at a cost of £4.50 and is valid for up to two weeks. The hydrotherapy baths will be purchased separately at a cost of around £13. The sessions last around 45 minutes and are limited to 45 people. The building will incorporate a detailed CRM to monitor driver usage and reward frequent users. How will the costs be covered? A key aspect to the project success is the potential to collaborate with large haulage companies, enabling better working conditions and corporate responsibility. Companies lose money from idling fuel costs, payment of sick leave (particularly from musculoskeletal conditions and driving related accidents). Eco45Hours has the potential to save companies money whilst increasing the employment benefits to the drivers. There are two ways that haulage companies can support the project: Bulk purchasing of tokens for employees Sponsorship of containers and Jacuzzi baths Incentivising drivers to reduce idling time, in return for tokens
Posted on: Fri, 30 Aug 2013 23:17:22 +0000
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