A new health promotion model for lone workers: Results of the safety & health involvement for truckers (SHIFT) pilot study

Objective: This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of a new health promotion model for lone workers. Methods: A single group pre- or posttest design was used to evaluate intervention effectiveness for reducing body weight and increasing healthful and safe behaviors. Truck drivers (n = 29) from four companies participated in a 6-month intervention involving a weight loss and safe driving competition, computer-based training, and motivational interviewing. Results: Objectively measured body weight reduced by 7.8 lbs (ΔSD = 11.5, Δd = 0.68, P = 0.005), and survey measures showed significant reductions in dietary fat and sugar consumption. An objective measure of safe driving also showed significant improvement, and increases in exercise motivational stage and walking fitness approached significance. Conclusions: Results suggest that the new intervention model is substantially more engaging and effective with truck drivers than previous education-based tactics.