WorkSafe Victoria is pleading with employers, workers and the self-employed not to ignore the health and safety risks involved in work-related driving.
Executive Director of Health and Safety at WorkSafe, Narelle Beer said road incidents tragically claimed the lives of 17 workers in Victoria last year – accounting for more than a quarter of the State’s total workplace fatality toll for 2022.
Dr Beer said most of those killed were workers who spent a majority of their time on the road, such as truck and delivery drivers, but several workers also died in incidents while driving between workplaces or appointments.
She said legal duties for both employers and workers extended to any vehicles used for work, regardless of the location or industry.
“Whenever a worker is on the road as part of their role, that vehicle is considered to be their workplace,” Dr Beer said.
“This applies to any vehicle being used for the purpose of work, including personal vehicles, whether the worker is being paid an allowance or not,” she said.
“This means that employers must ensure that the vehicle being used is safe and without risks to health and that drivers are appropriately licensed and trained, while workers must take reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of other road users.”
Dr Beer said at least 486 workers had a claim for compensation accepted last year after being injured due to a vehicle incident on the road in the course of their employment.
She said it was crucial for employers to have systems to ensure vehicles were adequately maintained, drivers were appropriately trained and risk factors were identified and properly managed.
“Speeding, drugs and alcohol, fatigue, and technology use or other in-vehicle distractions are all things that should be considered,” the Director said.
“It’s also important to plan ahead to avoid any adverse road conditions which can increase the risk of serious injury or death,” she said.
“Employers should consult with workers on appropriate road safety policies, procedures and instructions.”
Dr Beer said WorkSafe was taking a targeted, prevention-led approach focusing on the highest risk sectors and hazards that were causing road transport fatalities and serious injuries.
