Survey of New Zealand truck driver fatigue and fitness for duty

This paper presents recent research into compliance with current driving hours regulations, the effectiveness of using driving hours to predict fatigue, and alternative compliance and enforcement options. The paper describes results of a major survey of truck driver fatigue in New Zealand, a review of international compliance and enforcement procedures, and research focussing on the social forces and influences that affect truck drivers. The survey of truck drivers was based on interviews and performance tests collected from 600 truck drivers at depots, wharves, markets, and other locations throughout the North Island of New Zealand. The interviews included: questions on driver demographic and work/rest patterns, drivers' attitudes towards fatigue, propensity towards daytime sleepiness, and a self-assessment of the driver's momentary level of fatigue. In addition, a simulator-based performance test of driving was undertaken. The performance test included a combination of a standard driving task, a dual-axis sub-critical tracking task (maintaining speed and steering in a controlled but unstable environment, a virtual roadway affected by the appearance of random wind gusts requiring steering correction), and a tertiary or side-task requiring driver monitoring and periodic responses. The initial results from the first 100 drivers have found a sizable number of drivers exceeding the allowable driving hours, high levels of fatigue and sleepiness, and interesting differences between line-haul and local delivery drivers. A related research project into the social processes and relationships that affect truck drivers has resulted in a good understanding of the social conditions that influence cultural change and the actions of truck drivers and fleet managers. In this paper we will have particular regard to these processes in the construction of ideas concerning safety. This includes an understanding of the role of major stakeholders, such as freight forwarders and the enforcement agencies with respect to drivers and their conditions, actions and understanding of the road transport industry. This knowledge coupled with the survey results and an understanding of compliance and enforcement alternatives will be used to explore potential fatigue management options.