Improvements to transport safety identified in WorkSafe New Zealand report

Improvements to Transport Safety Identified in WorkSafe New Zealand Report

A joint project between WorkSafe New Zealand and a cross-sector of industry representatives has formed, with a shared outcome of improving health and safety practices across the Transport, Postal and Warehousing sectors.

Data from WorkSafe shows that in 2019, within the Transport, Postal and Warehousing industry, there were 57 fatal crashes, 170 serious injuries and 521 minor injuries involving trucks. Of those vehicle-related incidents, 147 workers involved could not return to their roles for more than one week.

Recommendations for Managing Supply Chain Risks

WorkSafe New Zealand tasked a consultancy group with providing recommendations to improve vehicle-related health and safety, while minimising hazardous outcomes linked to supply chain pressures.

Thirteen recommendations were made, focusing on eight specific areas. These cover topics including fatigue management, vehicle maintenance and driver wellbeing. Full details can be found on the WorkSafe New Zealand website, and businesses seeking guidance can also explore safety documents for New Zealand businesses to support compliance efforts.

Eye Injury and Vision Protection at Work

According to Gary Rodney, a behavioural optometrist who assists businesses with vision-related questions, preventing accidents, spotting hazards, and protecting eyesight before anyone gets hurt remains vital for workplace wellbeing.

In workplace environments involving dust, tools, especially power tools, compressed air, UV light, extremely bright light or hazardous chemicals, eye protection becomes imperative.

Selecting the Right Eye Protection

Identifying the areas where PPE is needed, and ensuring eye protection remains available to workers, matters greatly. Beyond availability, protective eyewear should also be comfortable, fit well, and comply with Australian standards. Businesses managing broader compliance obligations may find it useful to review New Zealand OHS/WHS management systems alongside their eye safety protocols.

"Your eyesight is too important to risk because you don't want to engage with workplace safety officers or simply don't feel like wearing your PPE," says Gary.

"Take the necessary steps, report problems, and stay informed as to what to do in the event of an accident."

Read the original article on the Digital Journal website.