Do you regularly spend your mandatory weekly rest period in your truck? Are you paying for accommodation even though your employer should provide it?
Many drivers spend weeks or even months away from home. However, if you regularly spend your weekly rest period sleeping in your truck, your rights to safe working conditions and proper rest may be violated.
The truck cabin can be used for rest or overnight stays during your rest. However, EU rules clearly state when you may rest in your vehicle and when your employer must provide suitable accommodation. You may take your daily rest and your reduced weekly rest in your truck, provided that the vehicle has suitable sleeping facilities and is parked in an appropriate place.
When are you not allowed to sleep in your truck?
You must not spend your regular weekly rest period of at least 45 hours in the truck cabin. This rule applies in all EU Member States. If you are taking a regular weekly rest period, you should be able to rest in suitable accommodation outside the vehicle. If you cannot spend your regular weekly rest at home, your employer or transport company must arrange and pay for suitable accommodation that allows you to rest properly. The cost of a hotel, guesthouse, or other suitable accommodation must not be charged to you.
If you are spending your regular weekly rest in your truck, or you think your resting conditions are not adequate, you can contact the Labour Inspectorate.
Useful links and contacts:
Ministry of Transport of the Slovak Republic
More information about working time in road transport
Being forced by your employer to sleep at your workplace can be a sign of human trafficking or labour exploitation. Not sure about your situation? Check the warning signs of labour exploitation below to find out whether you may need help and support.