The NAFMP Pod

Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance

The NAFMP Pod is the official podcast of the North American Fatigue Management Program. Listen to conversations about managing driver fatigue with professional drivers, motor carriers, solution providers and other fatigue management experts. The NAFMP Pod is produced by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) and sponsored ad-free by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and Transport Canada. You may contact the host, CVSA Fatigue Management Specialist Rodolfo Giacoman at https://nafmp.org/contact/

  1. BaselineNC – NAFMP Solution Series

    6d ago

    BaselineNC – NAFMP Solution Series

    Listen to workplace fatigue expert Neil Clark, founder and CEO of IHF Digital, for a presentation on BaselineNC, a real-time workplace fatigue monitoring wearable with a focus on biometric data accuracy. By tracking shift patterns, BaselineNC helps companies protect their workforce, optimize schedules and drive stronger organizational performance. This webinar is part of the North American Fatigue Management Program's (NAFMP) ongoing series, aiming to showcase various vendor solutions for fatigue management that motor carriers may consider. It's important to note that neither CVSA nor NAFMP endorses or recommends any specific product or service. The claims and system specifications of vendors have not been validated by CVSA or NAFMP. Webinar Chapters 00:00:00 – Welcome and Speaker Introductions Terry Moore introduces featured speaker Neil Clark from IHF Digital and host Rodolfo Giacoman from CVSA. Rodolfo provides a brief overview of how technology fits into the North American Fatigue Management Program (NAFMP).  00:06:45 – Defining Predictive Fatigue Risk Management Neil Clark discusses the limitations of traditional fatigue monitoring, such as subjective surveys and reactive camera-based systems.  00:10:07 – Baseline NC Overview and Origin Neil explains how the 2016 Croydon tram crash inspired the creation of the Baseline NC system. He outlines the goal of detecting fatigue biomarkers proactively to prevent accidents before they occur.  00:14:18 – Medical-Grade Sensors and Biometrics An explanation of the six medical-grade sensors used in the wearable device. The system measures heart rate, skin temperature, SpO2, galvanic skin response, and incorporates a six-axis accelerometer to track micro-movements.  00:16:32 – Algorithm Development and Independent Testing Neil shares how the technology was independently tested in a UK tram simulator. The Baseline NC system successfully detected inattention hours before drivers self-assessed as fatigued, even predicting micro-sleeps.  00:22:36 – Key Differentiators and Union Engagement A look at how Baseline NC differs from traditional methods and camera systems. Neil highlights the importance of open, authentic conversations to gain support from industrial relations and labor unions.  00:29:56 – The App, Hub, and Control Room Dashboard An overview of the system's user interface, detailing the mobile app, safe driver modes, and the screenless "hub" device. Neil also demonstrates the control room dashboard, which gives supervisors an at-a-glance view of driver fatigue statuses (Red, Amber, Green).  00:34:51 – Three Easy Steps to Implementation The onboarding process for organizations is broken down into an introductory session, an up to two-week period where the algorithm trains on the user's individual baseline, and finally going live.  00:37:26 – Q&A Session Rodolfo leads a Q&A session covering topics such as whether the device needs to be worn to bed, average battery life, the protocol for supervisors when a driver hits a "red" alert, data ownership, and the role of safety culture in a successful rollout.

    1h 8m
  2. Top Two CMV Driver Mortality Causes: 2026 Guidelines and Prevention (Part 2 of 2)

    Jun 10

    Top Two CMV Driver Mortality Causes: 2026 Guidelines and Prevention (Part 2 of 2)

    Building on the clinical framework established in part one (May 29) of this two-part series, this episode explored the highest-impact lifestyle levers to improve the key biomarkers that mitigate mortality risk, with a focus on VO2 max. Learn how to implement sustainable changes that address the unique occupational challenges faced by CMV drivers. This episode is part of the North American Fatigue Management Program’s (NAFMP) ongoing series on commercial driver fatigue topics. 00:00:00 - Introduction and Webinar Overview The moderator introduces the webinar on CMV driver mortality causes and introduces speaker Rodolfo Giacoman. 00:03:33 - Recap of Part 1 A review of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, plaque buildup, stroke, heart attacks, and the PREVENT calculator. 00:09:32 - Lifestyle Recommendations Disclaimer A reminder to check with a medical provider before following recommendations and to avoid letting the information cause additional stress. 00:11:09 - The Importance of Quitting Smoking Discussion on how smoking damages blood vessels, the effects of nicotine, and the necessity of finding help to quit. 00:14:53 - Key to Wellness 1: Positive Relationships Explanation of how strong social ties are the single most important predictor of well-being and longevity, increasing survival odds by 50%. 00:24:55 - Key to Wellness 2: VO2 Max and Exercise Details on why maximum cardiopulmonary fitness is the second most important predictor of longevity, alongside recommendations for Zone 2 cardio, high-intensity interval training, and stretching. 00:38:58 - Key to Wellness 3: Mindfulness and Meditation Defining mindfulness as paying attention to the present moment without judgment and exploring how it helps regulate stress and fatigue. 00:45:58 - Key to Wellness 4: Sleep and Sleep Hygiene An overview of sleep architecture, circadian rhythms, the fatal impact of sleep debt, and recommendations for optimal nap durations. 00:55:53 - Key to Wellness 5: Nutrition and Diet Myths Breaking down body weight components, macronutrients vs. micronutrients, the dangers of ultra-processed foods and liquid candy, and debunking "superfood" marketing myths. 01:25:25 - Audience Q&A Session Answers to viewer questions regarding coffee benefits, artificial sweeteners, cardiovascular screening, liability, and implementing corporate support programs.

    1h 49m
  3. Top Two CMV Driver Mortality Causes: 2026 Guidelines and Prevention (Part 1 of 2)

    May 29

    Top Two CMV Driver Mortality Causes: 2026 Guidelines and Prevention (Part 1 of 2)

    The American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association and nine other major medical associations issued updated guidelines for managing cardiovascular risk. In our two-part series, this episode examined the leading causes of commercial motor vehicle (CMV) driver mortality, key biomarkers for assessing risk and the latest clinical therapies. Join us on June 10 for part two, which focuses on lifestyle levers to optimize these health markers, specifically VO2 max. This is part of the North American Fatigue Management Program’s (NAFMP) ongoing series on commercial driver fatigue. CHAPTERS 00:00:00 — Introduction & Agenda OverviewWelcome, speaker introductions, agenda breakdown, and a reminder for Part 2 of the series. 00:03:51 — Why Focus on CMV Driver Health?The fiduciary duty of drivers and carriers to ensure long-term viability, health as a professional asset, and an important medical disclaimer. 00:09:19 — The #1 Biological Cause of Death: ASCVDA deep dive into Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease, plaque formation, heart attack mechanics, and driver life expectancy statistics. 00:17:46 — The #1 Occupational Hazard: FatigueHow fatigue-related crashes serve as the top occupational hazard and how exhaustion physically compounds cardiovascular risk. 00:23:28 — Assessing Risk: Biomarkers & The PREVENT CalculatorUnderstanding critical biomarkers, the transition to the new PREVENT online calculator, and measuring baseline risks. 00:28:37 — 2026 Guidelines: Early Intervention & Risk CategorizationAn overview of the March 2026 guideline updates, the shift toward primary prevention, and aggressive early intervention strategies. 00:35:27 — Advanced Risk Assessment: ApoB, Lp(a), and CAC ScoresLooking beyond standard lipid panels to measure ApoB, genetic Lp(a) factors, and Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) scores. 00:48:55 — Clinical Therapies: From Statins to Gene TherapyA review of medical treatments to manage cholesterol, including statins, ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors, RNAi, and futuristic gene therapies. 00:53:07 — Integrating Health into Safety Culture & NAFMP ResourcesHow to modify risky behaviors through organizational culture, driver education, and utilizing free NAFMP modules and tools. 00:55:54 — Audience Q&A SessionAddressing live and pre-submitted questions on biometric monitoring, leadership buy-in, health bonuses, FMCSA physicals, scheduling, and sleep apnea.

    1h 25m
  4. A Conversation with First IDEA Winner Ross Reynolds

    Apr 8

    A Conversation with First IDEA Winner Ross Reynolds

    Listen to Ross Reynolds, inaugural winner of CVSA's International Driver Excellence Award, for a conversation with CVSA Fatigue Management Specialist Rodolfo Giacoman as they reflect on his legendary 40-year career with XPO. Fresh off retirement, "Coach" Reynolds shares the safety philosophies, fatigue management strategies, and mentorship techniques behind his over 4 million crash-free miles and his dedication to training the next generation of professional drivers. Episode Podcast Chapters 00:02:08 — Career Overview & Life Story Ross shares his journey from driving box trucks in high school in 1977 to becoming a titan of the industry, detailing his transition from aviation back to professional driving. 00:11:05 — The Power of Choice A discussion on the core philosophy that "emotions are a choice." Ross explains how staying calm and professional when others cut you off is a standard every professional driver should set. 00:14:54 — Coaching & Safety Technology Ross discusses the rollout of Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) and Samsara cameras. He explains how video technology acts as an "eye-opener" for drivers to see their own fatigue behaviors. 00:26:45 — The Smith System A quick breakdown of the "All Good Kids Love Milk" mnemonic, which covers the five keys to defensive driving: Aim high, Get the big picture, Keep your eyes moving, Leave yourself an out, and Make sure they see you. 00:28:05 — Daily Routines for Success Ross emphasizes the importance of a regular sleep schedule to protect the circadian rhythm, a healthy breakfast, and consistent pre- and post-trip inspections. 00:32:00 — Driving Championships Ross shares his extensive history with the Arizona State Trucking Driving Championships, both as a winner of 40 first-place finishes and as a designer of the competition obstacle courses. 00:41:17 — Winter Driving Q&A In response to an audience question, Ross shares the unique perspective of a Southwest driver dealing with seasonal road closures and the "dry heat" of Arizona. 00:43:52 — Wellness & Relationships Cathy Reynolds joins the conversation. They discuss their 41-year partnership, how they support each other’s health and careers, and their shared love of music and gospel singing. 00:52:50 — Recognizing Imminent Sleep Ross identifies critical warning signs for drivers, such as struggling to focus, missing traffic signals, forgetting the last few miles driven, and excessive yawning. 00:54:08 — Cell Phone Policy A firm reminder that handheld devices are never legal or safe for CDL drivers, emphasizing the necessity of hands-free Bluetooth technology. 00:55:18 — Handling Mid-Day Drowsiness Tips for staying alert when fatigue creeps in, including engaging podcasts, lowering the cab temperature, maintaining clean air filters, and choosing snacks that avoid sugar crashes. 00:57:20 — Coaching Uncooperative Drivers Ross explains the importance of progressive discipline and a safety culture where supervisors are trained to recognize fatigue and aren't afraid to send a driver home for their own safety. 00:59:08 — Retirement & Closing Ross explains his decision to retire to spend more time as a caregiver for his family while maintaining his CDL for future championship course designs.

    1h 5m
  5. Project-61.org — NAFMP Solution Series

    12/04/2025

    Project-61.org — NAFMP Solution Series

    Watch Dr. Mark Manera to learn about how Project 61 is helping drivers enjoy longer, healthier lives by shining a light on a crisis and showing solidarity with the workforce that keeps our nation moving. Take part in their 61-day challenges to spread awareness, inspire healthier habits, and fight for a better future for drivers everywhere. CVSA Fatigue Management Rodolfo Giacoman hosted this webinar. This webinar is part of the North American Fatigue Management Program’s (NAFMP) ongoing series, aiming to showcase various vendor solutions for fatigue management that motor carriers may consider. It's important to note that neither CVSA nor NAFMP endorses or recommends any specific product or service. The claims and system specifications of vendors have not been validated by CVSA or the NAFMP. Key Webinar Topics 00:02:22 Driver wellness is a key part of safety culture 00:03:05 Attendees are directed to NAFMP.org for free resources 00:04:40 Project 61 is named after the average life expectancy of a truck driver 00:06:36 A driver's on-road heart attack story is shared 00:09:49 Dr. Manera details his research into the trucking industry's health problem 00:10:51 Driver health impacts safety, companies, and families 00:14:55 Statistics show high rates of obesity, diabetes, and depression among drivers 00:17:29 Poor health drives up business costs like insurance and turnover 00:20:11 The core problem is an industry structure that makes health difficult 00:21:44 Project 61 offers a free health program and community for drivers 00:22:56 Program metrics show high engagement and weight loss success 00:26:07 The impact of loneliness and isolation on driver health is discussed 00:34:12 The organization is scaling the proven solution to all North American drivers 00:38:13 The program focuses on three pillars: Movement, Nutrition, and Sleep 00:42:04 A driver success story of improved health and reduced medication is shared 00:45:02 Project 61 partners with carriers at no cost to support driver health 00:51:33 The program also helps reduce musculoskeletal injuries and fatigue 01:00:27 Nutrition strategy focuses on small, sustainable changes at truck stops 01:08:49 Program sleep focus addresses behavior, not medical sleep apnea 01:11:44 Successful driver engagement uses non-judgmental, family-focused messaging 01:19:40 Rodolfo emphasizes that driver well-being must be a core culture value 01:23:14 Dr. Manera encourages everyone to join the Project 61 health movement

    1h 26m
  6. Fatiguefit - NAFMP Solutions Series

    11/05/2025

    Fatiguefit - NAFMP Solutions Series

    Watch renowned sleep and fatigue Professor Drew Dawson of the Appleton Institute, Central Queensland University in Wayville, Australia and Sleepfit CEO Steven Perlen to learn how Fatiguefit, a digital fatigue risk management solution for motor carriers, may reduce risk, increase compliance and save lives. CVSA Fatigue Management Specialist Rodolfo Giacoman hosted the webinar.  📁 Fatigue and Distraction Detection Technology Report by Australia's National Heavy Vehicle Regulator. KEY WEBINAR MOMENTS 00:03:52 - Presenters sharing their location and time (Adelaide and Melbourne, Australia) 00:04:00 - Discussion on managing fatigue rather than avoiding it 00:04:40 - Australia's advanced fatigue management practices and regulations 00:05:40 - Alternative compliance certification for motor carriers 00:06:08 - Disclaimer about vendor endorsement and product verification 00:07:25 - Overview of global trends in motor vehicle carrier operations 00:08:20 - Evolution from policing model to proving compliance in fatigue regulation 00:09:22 - Historical origins of hours of service regulations 00:10:00 - Shift from catching violations to proving safety 00:11:20 - Basic fatigue management tier and alternate compliance 00:12:40 - Fatigue detection technologies and decision support systems 00:14:40 - Use of AI tools for fatigue management 00:15:40 - Australian companies driving up to 15.5 hours with alternate compliance 00:16:40 - Principles of fatigue management programs 00:18:00 - Understanding risk: likelihood and consequence 00:19:00 - Three causes of fatigue error likelihood 00:20:40 - ISO 31000 risk matrix for fatigue management 00:21:40 - Legally permitted versus safe schedules matrix 00:24:00 - Alternative compliance and exemptions in the US 00:25:00 - Definition of work and working time arrangements 00:26:40 - Australia's alternative compliance safety case process 00:27:40 - Four domains of fatigue risk management 00:29:00 - Introduction to Fatiguefit solution suite 00:30:40 - Fatiguefit for Duty mobile app 00:32:40 - 5-12 rule: minimum sleep requirements for fitness for duty 00:35:40 - Shared responsibility approach between employers and employees 00:38:00 - Addressing concerns about driver honesty in reporting sleep 00:40:00 - Was It Fatiguefit incident investigation tool 00:43:00 - Sleepfit sleep disorder screening tool 00:45:20 - Importance of treating sleep disorders in truck drivers 00:47:00 - Training modules for employees and managers 00:48:40 - Policy builder tool 00:50:40 - Fatigue risk management gap assessment 00:53:00 - Q&A: Making business case for fatigue management programs 00:56:00 - Q&A: Integration with wearable devices 00:59:00 - Q&A: Training costs and scalability 01:00:40 - Q&A: Detecting and recognizing fatigue in drivers 01:05:00 - Q&A: AI-equipped driver-facing cameras 01:07:00 - Q&A: Sleep disorders screening and treatment 01:10:00 - Q&A: Driving after physical labor and circadian rhythm impacts 01:13:00 - Q&A: Inferential logic bias in fatigue assessment 01:14:40 - Q&A: Prophylactic napping and micro breaks 01:16:20 - Q&A: Required sleep hours for full rest 01:19:40 - Q&A: Starting fatigue management program from scratch 01:22:00 - Q&A: Integration with existing driver-facing camera systems 01:24:00 - Q&A: Integrating programs without disrupting productivity 01:28:40 - Q&A: Advice for driver wellbeing over the road 01:31:00 - Closing remarks and contact information

    1h 33m

About

The NAFMP Pod is the official podcast of the North American Fatigue Management Program. Listen to conversations about managing driver fatigue with professional drivers, motor carriers, solution providers and other fatigue management experts. The NAFMP Pod is produced by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) and sponsored ad-free by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and Transport Canada. You may contact the host, CVSA Fatigue Management Specialist Rodolfo Giacoman at https://nafmp.org/contact/