June 13, 2005 11:00 AM, EDT

Schneider Installing Ergonomic Systems to Help Drivers

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ruckload carrier Schneider National said Monday it was working with Atlas Ergonomics to provide in-cab health and safety improvements for more than 12,000 truck drivers.

In a pilot study of the Atlas system, driver-reported discomfort dropped to 20% from 85%, the companies said in a joint statement. More than 90% of drivers reported improvement in their fatigue level and job satisfaction.

"Drivers in our pilot study reported being less fatigued and more comfortable in trucks equipped with the Atlas seat marking system,” said Don Osterberg, Schneider’s vice president of safety.

He said Scheider had already begun implementing the system, with all trucks slated for installation by mid-summer.

Schneider is ranked No. 7 on the Transport Topics 100 listing of U.S. and Canadian for-hire carriers.