Keeping truckers healthy and aware

In 2011, more than 400 drivers were screened at four Engen Truck Stop sites. The Wellness Days run from Engen truck stops and some retail sites, target long distance truck drivers, who are sometimes on the road for up to two weeks at a time. In mobile clinics, qualified nurses and counsellors screen drivers and the public for blood pressure, diabetes, tuberculosis, BMI (Base Mass Index) and HIV/AIDS. They provide counselling and a referral service where required.

On a cold and rainy Wednesday evening, truck drivers in the Western Cape passing the Engen Winelands North 1-Stop at Joostebergvlakte underwent screening tests and counselling for diabetes and HIV and AIDS.

"As a group, we are pleased to continue playing a role in informing, educating and raising awareness of the impact of these chronic diseases on road safety and also encouraging those that are healthy to maintain their healthy lifestyle and take adequate precautions moving forward," says Khanyisa Balfour, group CSI manager at Engen.

Present at Winelands North was Damon Salie, a representative from Partners in Sexual Health. "We value the relationship we have built, as both companies realise the importance of combating HIV/AIDS by educating and making a difference to a larger part of society in the transport industry through the many truck drivers that were engaged on the day," adds Salie.