Neat idea or what? You tell Bigloryblog. On the 5th January 2009 DWC Products of Norwich, is launching 'Truckersarmrest', a window-fitting armrest for commercial vehicles. And according to the PR blurb supplied to Biglorryblog: "This comfort product has been developed by a leading professional in the field of postural alignment and ergonomics. It can help to alleviate the symptoms of hand arm vibration syndrome and the registered design fits almost all of today's commercial vehicles. The armrest is made from durable recyclable polyurethane and manufactured in Great Britain."
Director Derek Cooper tells me: "in my previous role as a practising Manipulative Therapist, I visited many people needing treatment for problems intensified by long periods behind the wheel of a vehicle, particularly HGV's. I think that the Truckersarmrest will be of great benefit to thousands of drivers in the future." The PR blurb goes on to say: "Work-related upper limb disorders and hand arm vibration syndrome are two of the four most prevalent types of ill-health causing absence from the workplace. Statistics indicate that on average 9 days per year for each employee are lost due to illness and injury among the Wholesale Distribution and Transport sector." News to BLB, but then I probably don't spend enough time in a truck to tell the difference--which is something I'll no doubt get a rollocking over from 'The Boss'!
Of course I can see one simple flaw straight away...you can't use it when it's raining (or when it's freezing cold) which in winter happens quite alot I'm told. But then you can't have everything in life can you?
To find out more, check out their website or call 0844 414 2824. Alternatively you can send an e-mail to request literature.
I'd like to see his research to back up his claim ?
So that's how you guys drive in the UK, with one arm half hanging out the window? Do you steer with your knees while changing gear? Oh no, I remember now, you don't have proper gearboxes, do you? Why do you drive with the window open, anyway, to let all the noise and bugs in, or don't your trucks have air conditioning yet? I thought the driver's hands were supposed to be on the steering wheel as much as possible.
When I was about 15, like the model in the photo, I thought it was real cool (although that word wasn't used with that meaning 55 years ago) to drive around with one arm hanging out the window, but it really isn't.
A neat idea? I don't think so! But then that's just an old trucker's point of view, to steal a phrase from NZ Trucking magazine.