The NZ Trucking Association has launched the Recovery at Work (RAW) programme, now available through the HARMfree Transport and Logistics Online Portal.

The new initiative represents a big step forward for the transport and logistics industry. It empowers companies to support their teams with empathetic, effective recovery resources that prioritise people’s wellbeing.

Thanks to the ACC’s 2023/24 Innovation Fund, which backs fresh approaches to injury recovery, NTA can offer the RAW programme at no cost to the industry. ACC’s support has been instrumental in making this resource widely accessible, and we’re grateful for its investment in the health and safety of our workforce.

The RAW programme results from nine months of dedicated development by a diverse team of experts, all driven by a shared commitment to improving recovery outcomes in our industry. From senior health and safety leaders to HR professionals, occupational therapists, te ao Māori experts and healthcare providers, the RAW steering group brought invaluable expertise to the table. We also leaned on the insight and experience of the HARMfree community of health, safety and wellbeing champions across New Zealand, ensuring that the programme combats the challenges our industry faces.

The RAW programme addresses the high incidence of workplace injuries within the transport and logistics sector. Injuries often mean extended time off, reduced productivity and a strain on workers and their teams. RAW offers a comprehensive recovery tool-kit, specifically designed with the needs of our kaimahi (workers), so they feel supported every step of the way. With its structured approach, RAW empowers industry leaders to maintain strong connections with injured workers throughout their recovery journey, ultimately enhancing wellbeing, retention and productivity.

Freely accessible through the HARMfree online portal, RAW supports organisations in adopting streamlined recovery protocols and empathetic management practices. These resources not only foster morale and connection during recovery but also contribute to faster, more positive outcomes. Multilingual materials and te ao Māori perspectives within the programme strengthen inclusivity and encourage a supportive workplace culture.

Some of the key focuses of the RAW programme include:

•  caring for others (manaaki tāngata), ensuring that each person feels supported throughout their recovery
•  the role of family (whānau) in the recovery process, acknowledging the integral support they provide
• creating a supportive work environment (kaitiakitanga) that promotes the wellbeing of all employees and fosters a strong sense of community (whanaungatanga)
• a unified approach (kotahitanga) to guide the recovery process, where employers, healthcare professionals, employees and their whānau collaborate to achieve the best possible recovery outcome.

Resources available through the RAW programme include:

• standard operating procedures
• RAW company policy template
• alternative duties template
• toolbox talks
• educational video
• multilingual posters

To explore the Recovery at Work programme, visit the HARMfree Transport and Logistics portal at harmfreetransport.nz or contact us at info@harmfree.nz or 0800 338 338 for further information.

By working together, we can make recovery at work a supportive, positive experience – one that leads to better recovery outcomes and a thriving, resilient industry.