The COVID-19 pandemic has had a wide-reaching effect on all industries around the world, including long-haul trucking and commercial driving. Keeping up with pandemic safety measures can be challenging, so we’ve gathered some helpful information about FMCSA safety regulations. Below, you’ll find everything commercial drivers need to know related to COVID-19 safety.
Why are There Regulations?
Though the quarantines and lock-downs have ended, for the most part, it’s still essential that commercial drivers and truckers stay aware of COVID-19 risks and avoid spreading the virus. The virus and its variants can still be deadly to certain members of the population, so staying on top of masking, distancing, and other measures can help reduce the spread.
COVID-19 Safety and Commercial Driving
To slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus, drivers must follow specific guidelines. Updated guidelines indicate that the FMCSA Emergency Declaration is extended until May 31. This extension allows a higher maximum driving time for property-carrying vehicles and applies to a limited type of qualifying products, including:
- Livestock and feed
- COVID-19-related items: vaccines, medical supplies, testing kits, treatment items, and other products related to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of the virus
- Sanitation items necessary for preventing the spread of the virus, like soap, gloves, masks, hand sanitizer, etc.
- Essential items, like food, water, paper products, and general groceries for emergency restocking
- Fuel like gasoline, ethyl alcohol, diesel, and jet fuel
- Building and other supplies to help displaced individuals
At this time, proof of vaccination is no longer required, except for foreign national truck drivers entering the United States.
As far as wearing masks, they are no longer generally required. However, make sure to check the local regulations of your destination and stops along the way. When in doubt, wear a mask in indoor public or crowded areas. Additionally, use hand sanitizer regularly.
What if I Have Symptoms?
If you start having COVID-19 symptoms, like coughing, sneezing, sore through, or body aches, get tested as soon as you can. If you test positive, avoid interacting with others, even if your symptoms are mild. Instead, try to stay at home or away from others while you recover. A negative COVID test will let you know when it’s safe to be around people again without spreading the virus.
Staying in good health is a priority for commercial drivers. Whether you have COVID symptoms or you just need a DOT physical exam, your local urgent care center can help you out. With low wait times and experienced professionals, you’ll be able to get the treatment or exam you need in no time.
Whenever a patient needs to visit an urgent care center for DOT Physicals they can always visit AFC Urgent Care West Orange. Patients just need to visit on the day of their visit and get walk-in DOT physicals!
