The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has provided a reminder to all in the trucking industry to remain safe both on and off roads for National Safe Work Month.
The NHVR says there are more than 556,000 workers currently employed in Australia’s road industry, be that behind the wheel, in the workshop or behind a desk, making up a total representation of 5.3 per cent of the nation’s workforce.
NHVR acting CEO Ray Hassall says the month allows the industry to reflect on how to maintain best working practices within businesses and organisations.
“The majority of transport and logistics companies are safety-focused, using tools such as training programs, hazard and risk reporting, and policies and procedures to ensure a safe and healthy work environment,” he says.
“The NHVR is here to help industry with education and resources to meet their specific heavy vehicle safety requirements and comply with the Heavy Vehicle National Law.
“Having effective policies or procedures such as a Safety Management System for example helps companies manage their Workplace Health and Safety risks to prioritise everyone’s safety and wellbeing.”
The regulator says it can issue transport companies with improvement notices to correct policy and procedure flaws if there’s been a safety breach identified.
“The pressure placed on drivers can cause unsafe risk-taking behaviours, which may result in deteriorating driver health, near misses, vehicle collisions and road fatalities,” Hassall says.
“No one should feel unsafe at work and the Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Line is available to report safety issues such as driver fatigue, business practices and mechanical safety.”
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