SafetyDriven – Trucking Safety Council of BC (TSCBC) is a dedicated organization focused on promoting occupational health and safety within British Columbia’s trucking, transportation, and related industries. As a certifying partner with WorkSafeBC, SafetyDriven offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to enhance workplace safety and ensure compliance with provincial regulations.

Established to address the unique occupational health and safety challenges faced by the trucking sector, SafetyDriven provides resources and support to employers and employees. Their offerings include safety program development, training courses, and the Certificate of Recognition (COR) program, which guides participants on how to create efficient operations that meet safety standards for a COR audit. By fostering a culture of safety, SafetyDriven aims to reduce workplace injuries and incidents, contributing to a more efficient and responsible industry.

SafetyDriven’s mission is clear: to reduce injuries, save lives, and create a culture of safety that extends from the cab of the truck to the boardroom. Their initiatives are grounded in research, best practices, and a deep understanding of the realities faced by those in the trucking industry. From fatigue management and collision prevention to ergonomics and mental health, SafetyDriven’s programs
are designed to meet the diverse needs of the industry.

A Growing Focus on Mental Health

While physical safety has long been a cornerstone of SafetyDriven’s work, the organization is increasingly recognizing the critical importance of mental health
in the trucking industry. Truck drivers face a unique set of stressors that can adversely affect their mental well-being. Extended hours on the road, pervasive isolation, continuous pressure from tight delivery deadlines, and the demanding physical nature of their work all contribute to a complex psychological landscape. These factors can significantly impact mental health, making it essential to address these issues with the same urgency
as physical safety.

In its ongoing commitment to fostering mental wellness, SafetyDriven is taking bold steps to expand its mental health resources and support systems. One of the most significant initiatives is the offering of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training courses tailored for the trucking industry.

SafetyDriven has certified facilitators trained by Opening Minds, an initiative established by the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC). This program represents the largest systematic effort in Canadian history focused on eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health. The MHFA training courses are designed to equip participants with the skills to recognize and respond to signs of mental health issues. Much like physical first aid prepares individuals to provide immediate assistance in medical emergencies, mental health first aid empowers participants to offer immediate support to colleagues
who may be experiencing a mental health crisis or showing early signs of mental health challenges.

The course will cover a range of topics, including:

• Recognizing the signs and symptoms of common mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.
• Providing initial help to someone experiencing a mental health crisis.
• Guiding individuals toward appropriate professional support.
• Reducing stigma and fostering a supportive environment for mental health discussions.

By offering this training, SafetyDriven aims to create a network of mental health first-aiders within the trucking industry – individuals who can provide immediate support to their colleagues and help break down the barriers that often prevent people from seeking help.  

Looking Ahead

As SafetyDriven continues to expand its mental health initiatives, the organization remains committed to its core mission of promoting safety and wellness in the trucking industry. The introduction of the MHFA course is just one example of how SafetyDriven is adapting to meet the evolving needs of the sector.

The MHFA course will soon be available, and interested individuals can stay informed about this training opportunity
by visiting Safetydriven.ca or by reaching out directly at Info@SafetyDriven.ca. Together, we can build a safer, healthier future for Western Canada’s trucking industry.

SafetyDriven is not just about keeping trucks on the road – it’s about keeping people safe, healthy, and connected. Because when it comes to mental health, every conversation matters, and every action counts.