Two-fifths of truck drivers are suffering from depression, with many citing isolation and long hours as key contributors to mental health challenges, acccoring to new research.

The survey by money.co.uk business loans delved into ONS data to reveal that the transport industry has the second-highest number of night-time workers - which the researchers said could contribute to the levels of depression in the sector.

The transportation and storage industry ranks second, with 681,056 night-time workers, representing more than two-fifths (42%) of the workforce. This sector includes logistics, freight transport, and warehousing, which often involves employees working outside of traditional business hours.

With 42,500 night-time workers per 100,000 employees, the industry faces challenges, such as coordinating logistics, maintaining safety protocols for night operations, and managing worker fatigue, the report concluded.

Cameron Jaques, money.co.uk business loans expert said: “To reduce the risks associated with night-time work, businesses should implement several key strategies that prioritise employee well-being and protect the company from legal and financial liabilities.”

These include smarter scheduling, Jaques added: “Rotate shifts to avoid too many consecutive night shifts for employees and provide sufficient recovery time between shifts. This can reduce the risk of fatigue-related mistakes, especially in high-risk environments like healthcare.

“Also ensure that night workers have access to adequate rest breaks and a designated area to relax during their shifts. This helps maintain alertness and reduce stress.

He also advises employers to monitor health and safety. He explained: “Regular health assessments should be offered to night workers, especially those in physically or mentally demanding roles. Employers can identify risks early, support their staff, and make adjustments by actively monitoring employee health.

Purchasing the right business insurance is also key Jaques said: “It’s vital for business owners to take out the right insurance policies to protect themselves and their night-time workers. These might include liability insurance: Businesses should ensure their policy explicitly covers risks associated with night-time work, such as workplace injuries or incidents involving intoxicated customers.”

He added: “Professional indemnity insurance: This is especially important in sectors like healthcare, where night workers may be at higher risk of making errors due to fatigue. It protects businesses from claims of negligent service or advice.

Public liability insurance is also important Jaques added. “For businesses like bars, clubs, or retail, this insurance protects against claims if a member of the public is injured on the premises during night-time operations. This is particularly relevant when dealing with intoxicated patrons or late-night crowds.”

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