Keeping drivers safe and productive amid the coronavirus pandemic was the focus of a panel discussion by fleet human resource specialists on Wednesday during the virtual CCJ Symposium.
Also discussed were strategies for emerging stronger from the crisis.
Panelist Jessie Burnette, chief people officer of Hirschbach (CCJ Top 250, No. 65), a refrigerated truckload carrier with more than 2,000 power units, has been involved in creating company task forces to support drivers, office staff and their families. One task force is jointly run by the company’s wellness and HR team for providing a 24/7 COVID hotline.
Employees, contractors and their family members can call the hotline to receive help and resources, such as to find locations to be tested should they experience COVID-19 symptoms or get treatment for physical and mental well-being.
All new drivers for the Dubuque, Iowa-based company go through a health and wellness program in orientation training that lasts four hours and covers topics that include functional movement, diaphragmatic breathing and eating with intent, Burnette said.
Drivers can then voluntarily enroll in the company’s ongoing health and wellness program to receive weekly coaching, meal kits and other resources for the road. Hirschbach’s wellness team is also available to the families of drivers and office staff.
Panelist Brenda Kraft, vice president of human resources for Kottke Trucking, a refrigerated truckload and less-than-truckload carrier with 225 trucks, said the Buffalo Lake, Minnesota-based company is conducting driver orientation training meetings remotely.
