Over to you A FAIR GO FOR OWNER DRIVERS by Ray Pratt
The transport industry – gearing up to meet the needs of the nation
T
he COVID 19 pandemic has certainly played havoc with the world and especially here in Australia. The globe is in crisis and Australia is shell shocked. The way in which we work and live our lives has seen such dramatic changes that we would have never imagined that it could happen here. Most workplaces that are still operating are doing so under extreme hardship. I’ve always maintained that truck drivers work hard and they make do under extreme conditions. Everyone is now working under extreme circumstances but the job of being a truck driver has got a lot harder. Truck drivers and transport operators are working in extreme circumstances amid social distancing and fear from most of the nation that they will contract the virus. This has led to many roadhouses reducing their services to minimise the risk of the virus to customers, employees and their region which has led to difficulty for drivers being able to find showers, toilets or just have a good wholesome meal – or anything else to eat for that matter. The transport industry accepts that businesses are being responsible and closing, but truck drivers still need to access their basic needs. You can only put up with takeaways
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WATM • May 2020
and lack of showers and toilet facilities for a short time and no matter how bad the situation is, everyone needs food and the basic necessities to survive, so it is imperative that our transport industry is looked after in order to keep Australia’s wheels turning. Never forget the slogan that if trucks stop then so does the country. Now more
changing laws and boundaries and uppermost maintain their own health and keep virus-free. Drivers will be vulnerable because they are mobile and they are in an environment in which they have little control. Remember, that truck drivers on average are older and have underlying health problems which will make them vulnerable to Coronavirus.
Remember, that truck drivers on average are older and have underlying health problems which will make them vulnerable to Coronavirus than ever every effort should be made from all in the supply chain that all freight movements should be planned to the extent that truck drivers can have access to facilities to care for their basic needs and to manage their fatigue. Whilst many businesses are winding down the transport industry is gearing up to meet the needs of a nation in crisis. It goes without saying that transport and distribution centres must keep delivering food and products throughout the Coronavirus pandemic. This will put drivers under pressure as they navigate
Everyone including the government must recognise the vital importance of truck drivers in these troubled times and ensure that their basic needs are met. Transport operators must be looked after to ensure that they can keep operating in a safe manner and remain viable in the industry. Next time you see a truck on the road spare a thought for the driver as he is providing a service that is valuable to you and your wellbeing especially in this time of trouble. Keep it safe, Ray Pratt.
