Sleep apnoea and the need to protect drivers

Allied Bakeries was one of the first companies to recognise sleep apnoea and implement a strategy to tackle it.

Regular communications highlight the symptoms to drivers, while an annual health questionnaire includes a section on this dangerous sleeping disorder.

Around 2% of Allied Bakeries’ drivers have been diagnosed with sleep apnoea (20 or so employees).

Depending on the availability of NHS sleep services, drivers are either referred to NHS sleep clinics or specialist company Resmed UK for treatment and given alternative duties until they are fit to return to driving.

“It’s not something drivers like to talk about as they fear it will result in them losing their licence, but all of our drivers diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnoea have been successfully treated and returned to driving duties,” says Paul Hannant.

“Not talking about it is far more dangerous and our approach has helped drivers to come forward.”

He adds: “Driver well-being is important. We look at their lifestyle, sleep patterns and diet – especially with the
early starts.

“This is all crucial for road safety.”