The structured health intervention for truckers (SHIFT) cluster randomised controlled trial: a mixed methods process...

Area of Science:

• Occupational health
• Public health interventions
• Behavioural science

Background:

• The Structured Health Intervention For Truckers (SHIFT) is a multi-component intervention designed to enhance physical activity and promote healthy lifestyle behaviors among truck drivers.
• A randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 382 UK truck drivers was conducted to evaluate the SHIFT intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a mixed-methods process evaluation of the SHIFT randomized controlled trial (RCT).
• To assess the implementation, fidelity, barriers, and sustainability of the SHIFT intervention in a real-world setting.

Main Methods:

• A cluster-RCT design was employed across 25 transport sites (12 intervention, 13 control).
• Intervention components included education, Fitbit devices, text messages, and in-cab workout equipment.
• Data were collected via questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with drivers and managers.

Main Results:

• High participant engagement with Fitbits (89.1%) and education sessions (79.2%), with recalled dietary behavior changes.
• Key barriers to healthy lifestyles included long hours and irregular shifts; increased contact frequency was a suggested improvement.
• Managers noted implementation challenges, particularly at smaller sites, despite overall positive reception of SHIFT's objectives.

Conclusions:

• The SHIFT intervention was largely implemented as planned, with high participant engagement and positive feedback.
• Adaptations to intervention delivery may be necessary to accommodate the unique characteristics of different transport sites.
• Both drivers and managers expressed strong support for integrating SHIFT into future Certificate of Professional Competence training.