We are currently experiencing the biggest fall in living standards since records began. With food prices rising and energy bills escalating, many households are under severe financial pressure. Unsurprisingly, a growing number of HGV drivers are considering second jobs to help make ends meet.

Over a third of UK workers have considered taking on additional employment—and for professional drivers, the temptation is real. However, while secondary employment may offer short-term financial relief, it also presents significant legal, operational, and safety risks that need to be managed carefully.

For transport operators, the starting point is to review whether a secondary employment policy exists. Does it require drivers to disclose and request permission before taking on another job? Is there a process to assess potential conflicts of interest, impact on attendance, performance, or most critically – compliance with drivers’ hours and working time rules?

In legal terms, time spent on a second job could be classified as “other work”, reducing a driver’s rest periods and leading to unintentional breaches of legislation. A blanket ban on second jobs may seem like a straightforward solution, but risks leaving the issue unspoken—and unmonitored.

A well-managed policy doesn’t just protect legal compliance; it creates an open culture where drivers can discuss pressures honestly and operators can support them responsibly. In a time of economic crisis, balance is key – between financial wellbeing, road safety, and operational viability.