In Phoenix, UPS driver Norbert Rodriguez and his manager, Nick Avila, are a dynamic duo who share a common focus on safety and personal wellness.
As co-chairs of their facility’s Comprehensive Health & Safety Process (CHSP) committee, Nick and Norbert help lead safety efforts for their entire driver team..
“Part of my role on the committee is to make sure all 150 drivers in my center have access to what they need,” Nick said. “Especially the MISSION® cooling gear they want to use.”
MISSION® gear offers sun and heat protection
UPS drivers value the simplicity of MISSION® cooling gear—just wet, wring and snap. As a safety partner to UPS since 2024, MISSION® ’s state-of-the-art technology helps its cooling fabrics stay up to 30 degrees cooler than body temperature.
"When you have cover, you don't need to constantly put on sunscreen," Norbert said. “Plus, it has a cooling effect; the MISSION® gear works really well.”
Walking the employee health and safety talk
Norbert regularly reminds the people around him that heat safety is only one part of the equation – personal wellness is just as important.
"Take care of your body if you want your body to take care of you,” Norbert said. “Safety and wellness go hand in hand.”
After taking a look at his eating habits, Norbert decided to take control of his physical health. Now he hits the gym at 5 a.m. three times a week – an effort that not only makes him stronger but also builds muscle that aids him in his job
“Norbert doesn't just deliver packages,” said Nick. “He uses his role on the safety committee to deliver safety and wellness – he exemplifies UPS’s culture of safety."
Did you know? UPS Fast Facts
- UPS is improving heat safety for employees. Over the past five years, we’ve invested more than 33 million hours and nearly $2 billion on safety training. to help prepare UPSers to work safely year-round. .
- UPS has more than 3,100 CHSP committees globally—including over 2,500 in the U.S.—where hourly employees and management collaborate on audits, process improvements, and compliance training to prevent injuries and promote well-being.