Most drivers have experienced vibrations while driving, yet few know about the immediate and long-term consequences of it.

Whole body vibration impacts all drivers, but truck drivers are more commonly affected by this as vibrations radiating through the steering wheel, floor and seat affect drivers that spend longer hours behind the wheel.

Combatting driver fatigue and discomfort

Some of the effects of whole-body vibrations can be felt immediately while others develop over time. Most drivers know the experience of feeling discomfort after an extended period driving. Yet, a greater concern is the fatigue it causes and, consequently, creation of fatigued driving.

Initially, drivers may start to feel discomfort within 30 minutes. After an extended period, fatigue will start to set in as greater cognitive and physical demands are placed on one’s body due to the vibrations.

There are several negative consequences when drivers are fatigued including increased distraction, shorter tempers, reduced co-ordination and inattentiveness.

Whole body vibration should receive more attention. According to the international body, the AAA Foundation, 17.6% of fatal crashes or over 300,000 accidents are due to drowsy driving. These are international statistics and one can assume the statistics are much higher in South Africa.

Prevention and solutions

There are certain ways in which one can counter the effect of whole-body vibration:

• Vehicle technology

Developments in vehicle suspension systems and the lumbar support of seats can play a significant role. This is something one should consider when purchasing new vehicles.

• Seating position

Drivers need to sit in a neutral position with their backs in full contact with the backrest to fully benefit from the lumbar support of vehicles, particularly in newer vehicles.

• Take breaks

Some countries only require breaks after an eight-hour driving period. This is not enough to counter fatigue that naturally occurs with driving, without even counting the fatigue from whole body vibration. Instead, drivers should make an effort to take a 15-minute break every two hours to reduce the fatigue from both these scenarios.

• Exit caution

Particularly for truck drivers, whole body vibration can increase the chance of drivers falling, often causing serious injury, as they exit their cabs. The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says of all nonfatal injuries and illnesses not related to transportation incidents, 30% were attributed to falls, slips and trips.

• Vehicle maintenance

Underinflated tyres and misaligned wheels cause uneven wear which amplifies whole body vibrations.

Reducing the effect of whole-body vibration reduces the risk your fleet faces on the road while also lowering long-term health risks. Fortunately, reducing these vibrations are simple steps that organisations can take, and which are often already a priority in ensuring road safety.

Eugene Herbert | CEO | MasterDrive | mail me |

Related FAQs: Impact of whole-body vibration on drivers

Q: What is the effect of vibration on driver drowsiness?

A: The effect of vibration, particularly whole-body vibration (WBV), has been known to contribute to driver drowsiness and fatigue. Prolonged exposure to WBV can significantly reduce driver vigilance, increasing the risk of motor vehicle accidents.

Q: How does whole-body vibration (WBV) exposure affect driver safety?

A: Exposure to whole-body vibration has direct impacts on driver safety by inducing drowsiness and reducing alertness. This can lead to impaired reaction times and increased chances of motor vehicle crashes.

Q: What are the factors that contribute to drowsiness in drivers?

A: Factors that contribute to drowsiness include prolonged exposure to WBV, inadequate rest, time of day and individual health conditions. Vibration exposure, particularly at certain frequencies, can also exacerbate these effects.

Q: What vibration parameters are most impactful regarding driver drowsiness?

A: Vibration frequency and amplitude are important parameters. Certain frequencies of WBV are more effective at inducing drowsiness, which can adversely affect driver vigilance and performance.

Q: Can exposure to vibration lead to motor vehicle accidents?

A: Yes, exposure to vibration, especially whole-body vibration, has been linked to an increase in the risk of motor vehicle accidents. Drowsiness and fatigue resulting from WBV exposure can impair a driver’s ability to respond appropriately to road conditions.

Q: Is there a systematic review on the effects of whole-body vibration on driver vigilance?

A: Yes, there have been systematic reviews that examine the effects of whole-body vibration on driver vigilance. These reviews highlight the direct impacts of WBV exposure on increasing drowsiness and reducing driver alertness.

Q: How can we reduce the impact of WBV on drivers?

A: To reduce the impact of WBV on drivers, it is essential to implement measures such as ergonomic vehicle design, regular breaks during long drives, and the use of vibration-dampening technology to minimise exposure to whole-body vibration.

Q: What are the differences between hand-arm vibration and whole-body vibration?

A: Hand-arm vibration primarily affects the upper limbs and can lead to conditions like hand-arm vibration syndrome, while whole-body vibration affects the entire body and is known to contribute to drowsiness and fatigue, impacting driver performance.

Q: What solutions are effective at mitigating the effects of WBV?

A: Effective solutions include the use of suspension systems in vehicles, driver training on recognising drowsiness signs and establishing regulations for vibration exposure limits in occupational settings, all aimed at enhancing driver safety.