Getting on the Healthy Hound Band Wagon

Thu, 07/25/2013 - 2:33pm

ATU Local 1700 is also determined to hold Greyhound accountable for their role in driving up health risks. Research by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) shows that for over-the-road drivers suffer greater rates of illness than workers in many other industries and occupations, including high rates of contagious illnesses, chronic disease, low back pain, asthma, diabetes, heart attacks and strokes. Even the healthiest drivers suffer from sky-high blood pressure.

The company must take action to reduce work-related hazards. Some possible solutions are:

  • improving work schedules
  • enhancing driver security
  • reducing fatigue
  • designing ergonomic seats and steering wheels on buses
  • encouraging safety stops for restroom use
  • expanding access to healthy food and drink

We also have too much stress on the job, between being on call 24/7, the constant threat of highway accidents, dealing with aging equipment, on-time performance pressure, passenger pressure, and Big-Brother-is-watching pressure.

Living a safe and healthy lifestyle is a challenge in our chosen profession, but the benefits to drivers and our loved ones are worth the effort. Take the initiative today to make the right personal choices and to work with your Local 1700 brothers and sisters to force Greyhound to provide a healthy work environment.

October 1 is the deadline for ATU Local 1700 members to qualify for reduced medical premiums next year by completing at least one of three activities in the Healthy Hound program. The three healthy activities are:

  • participate in the chronic health support program;
  • visit your doctor for a wellness exam or physical preventive care test; or
  • complete the online health risk assessment.

If you have any questions about the program, do not hesitate to contact your Good Health Steward, any member of the ATU Local 1700 Women's Caucus, or the Benefits Department. These individuals are committed to helping you reach your goals. Those who don’t comply will face a $240 increase in their 2014 medical premiums.

Sandra Frye