Truck driver vigilance call over Covid-19 spread

Date: 22.07.2020

Joint industry directive seeks truck drivers to ‘lead by example’

Truck driver vigilance call over Covid-19 spread

ATA image attributed to Dan Iles promoting its proactive approach call to Covid-19 protection

Truck drivers are being asked to take proactive steps to protect themselves and the community to help slow the spread of Covid-19.

The joint call from the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), Australian Trucking Association (ATA) and its member associations acknowledges the role of industry during the pandemic in supporting the national economy, with the continued spread of the virus reinforcing the importance of everyone playing a role in avoiding complacency and reducing transmission.

"While wearing a mask is not compulsory in all cases when crossing state borders, health authorities have highlighted the benefits of essential workers wearing a mask, with Queensland’s Chief Health Officer [Jeanette Young] also encouraging freight and logistics operators to implement regular testing protocols," NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto says.

"We believe it is an important way to reduce risk and reassure the community that the industry is doing the right thing."

New freight applications for Vic-NSW border crossings, here

ATA CEO Ben Maguire says that while the industry had more than proven its worth through both the bushfires and ongoing pandemic, it is still important for drivers to lead by example in protecting themselves and the community.

"While the exemptions given to freight movement have been vital to ensuring goods and services are available across the country, it is also important to recognise that we have a responsibility to do what we can to reduce risk," he says.

"ATA member associations have gone to extraordinary lengths to advocate on behalf of their members, as well as providing information and Covid-19 training.

"For example, QTA CEO Gary Mahon has worked directly with the Queensland Chief Health Officer to achieve practical results that keep the freight moving while also protecting the community."

The video message from Queensland CHO Jeannette Young is available here.

The NHVR's updates on border restrictions specific to industry are here.