FREIGHT AND LOGISTICS
What images does the word ‘safety’ conjure up in your mind? Perhaps it’s high visibility workwear? Checking off boxes on an audit form? Equipment costs? Or perhaps the task of preparing reports for management to demonstrate compliance? Many of these responses are typical. Far less typical is the scenario of colleagues at all levels of an organisation proactively engaging in discussions around safety.
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cross the freight and logistics industry, many remain so focused on the administrative processes that surround safety compliance that they neglect to have these essential conversations. Even when the conversations do occur, they are often too focused on the processes around safety, rather than the people involved. After all, safety issues are not solely caused by issues with vehicles or equipment. Suppose a colleague is struggling with pressures at home, or with mental health issues that might not be immediately apparent. These matters won’t necessarily be picked up by a traditional safety audit or compliance check – yet they can undoubtedly be contributing factors to workplace safety issues if left unaddressed.
CHECKING IN, NOT CHECKING OFF by Kirk Coningham, CEO, Australian Logistics Council
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September 2019 // Issue 12
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