OHS Awareness NSW Taxi Operators - NSW Taxi Industry

6. Health and Stress Management
Looking after your health and managing your stress
There are many things that affect the health and stress of Taxi Drivers. Some of these may
be beyond our control, but many can be controlled by sensible self-management. It is
these things you can control that affect your health and stress which are focused on in this
Section. They include:
diet
weight
exercise
smoking, alcohol and medication
fatigue
stress management.
In all of these areas this Section provides general information for educational purposes
only. If you have, or suspect you may have, any health problems you are strongly advised
to seek professional medical guidance.
Diet
Taxi Drivers have to be very careful that they do not rely only on 'convenience' type foods
or take-aways while they are working. Often these foods are high in fat and sugar which
may not be good for you over a long period. Generally it is better to have regular nutritious
meals and avoid unplanned snacking.
Most Taxi Drivers' diets can be improved by eating more high fibre breads and cereals
(preferably wholegrain) and vegetables and fruit. Cutting down on fats and sugars may not
only help reduce weight but may reduce your blood cholesterol levels. Reducing salt in
your diet may also be good for your health if you are having too much of it.
Weight
Healthy weight range charts can be obtained from your doctor or health department. If you
are overweight you should consider losing weight as obesity can be related to many health
problems, such as heart attacks. Your doctor, dietician or local health authority can give
you professional advice on diet.
Weight is reduced by diet and exercise. Since most taxi drivers’ working time is spent
sitting it's important to get adequate exercise to balance this.
OHS Awareness for NSW Taxi Operators: Information Guide
NSW Taxi Industry Association Page 61