Last-Mile Delivery Driver Safety
Package and food delivery drivers make dozens to hundreds of stops a day, getting in and out of the vehicle, climbing steps and porches, and racing the clock. Most injuries are strains, slips and falls, dog bites and heat illness, plus crashes from rushing and distraction.
- Delivery drivers
- Work vehicles
- Gig workers
Time pressure
Tight routes push drivers to run, skip breaks, and use phones while driving. Speed causes many of the injuries in this job. Report routes that can’t be done safely. You have the right to rest and meal breaks in many states. See Meal & Rest Breaks.
Heat
Cargo areas of vans and trucks can get extremely hot. Drink water before you’re thirsty, take cooling breaks, and watch for heat illness signs like dizziness, cramps and confusion. Some states have heat illness rules for outdoor and delivery work. See Heat Illness.
Lifting and carrying
- Organize the vehicle so packages for upcoming stops are within easy reach.
- Use a hand truck or cart for heavy or multiple packages.
- Lift with your legs and keep loads close; don’t twist while lifting.
- Don’t carry so much that you can’t see your feet on stairs.
Steps, porches and walkways
- Walk, don’t run. Watch for ice, wet leaves, uneven pavers, hoses and toys.
- Use handrails on stairs.
- Get in and out of the vehicle using handholds and steps; don’t jump. See Three Points of Contact.
- Wear slip-resistant shoes and, in winter, traction cleats for icy walks.
Dogs
- Look for signs of a dog (bowls, toys, “Beware of Dog” signs) before entering a yard.
- Don’t enter a yard with a loose dog. Leave a notice or hold the package.
- If a dog approaches, stay calm, don’t run, and keep the package or a clipboard between you and the dog.
In the vehicle
- Set the parking brake and turn off the engine at every stop. Rollaways have killed drivers who tried to stop their vehicle.
- Wear your seatbelt between stops, even short ones.
- Avoid backing; plan stops to pull forward. If you must back, look first. Children play in driveways.
- Set your route before driving; don’t use the phone or scanner while moving. See Distracted Driving.
Personal safety
Delivery drivers can be targets for theft and robbery. Lock the vehicle at every stop, keep valuables out of sight, trust your instincts, and never fight over packages. Report threats to your company and police.
Your rights
Some delivery drivers are classified as independent contractors when they should be employees. That affects pay, overtime, workers’ compensation and safety protections. See Misclassification.
Standards & references
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