The NZ Trucking Association (NTA) is gearing up to support health, safety and operational standards in New Zealand’s transport sector with the upcoming launch of TruckSafe New Zealand. This industry-led initiative is poised to redefine what it means to operate safely, professionally and responsibly on the country’s roads, encouraging transport companies nationwide to adopt a culture of safety and compliance.

A framework designed for New Zealand

TruckSafe New Zealand introduces a comprehensive framework developed by the industry for the industry. Its primary focus is supporting transport operators in meeting and surpassing existing regulatory standards, with particular emphasis on the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015.

Over many years, the NTA has built a strong collaborative relationship with the Australian Trucking Association (ATA). TruckSafe Australia is a not-for-profit subsidiary of the ATA, has been operating for over 27 years, and the evidence proves its effectiveness. With the support of TruckSafe Australia and the ATA, the NTA has taken the successful Australian system and tailored it to meet New Zealand’s regulatory and legislative demands.

This programme isn’t just about ticking boxes – it’s about embedding safety into every aspect of transport operations. By prioritising legal compliance, operational safety and the wellbeing of employees and the public, TruckSafe New Zealand aims to elevate the entire sector.

As public expectations and regulatory oversight around transport safety continue to grow, this programme couldn’t come at a better time. TruckSafe New Zealand is about setting a new standard for what professional, responsible transport operations look like in our country. Companies that proactively adopt these standards will not only ensure compliance but also gain a significant competitive edge.

Transport companies that participate in TruckSafe New Zealand will gain access to an array of resources, training, and expert guidance designed to help them continually improve and meet future challenges head on. Independent accreditation through the programme offers multiple benefits, including:

• Recognition as a safety leader: the official TruckSafe accreditation signals to clients, regulators and the public that a company is committed to the highest safety standards.
• Comprehensive risk management support: from identifying hazards to implementing effective controls, the programme offers tools to help companies minimise risks across all operations.
• Driver health and wellness initiatives: with a focus on improving the wellbeing of drivers, the programme addresses key issues such as fatigue, mental health, worker competency and workplace ergonomics.
• Safe vehicle operation: ensuring that fleets are well-maintained and operated safely is an integral part of the programme.

TruckSafe New Zealand provides the tools transport operators need to future-proof their businesses while safeguarding their employees and enhancing their reputations. TruckSafe New Zealand has been developed in collaboration with key stakeholders and industry experts to ensure its framework aligns with both the realities of transport operations and the regulators’ expectations.

This programme represents a turning point for the transport industry. By providing companies with the tools and knowledge they need, we’re empowering them to make meaningful, lasting improvements. This isn’t just about compliance; it’s about creating a culture where safety and excellence go hand in hand.

Companies will be guided through a self-assessment process to identify their current standing and areas for improvement. This approach ensures a smooth transition to achieving accreditation, with ongoing support available throughout the journey.

As TruckSafe New Zealand prepares to roll out, the NTA encourages transport companies to start their preparations now. By engaging with the programme early, operators can position themselves as leaders in safety and operational excellence, ensuring they remain competitive in an ever- evolving industry.

• For those interested in finding out more about the programme, there will be an information session on Friday 7 March at the TMC Trailers Trucking Industry Show during the CILT Health, Safety and Wellbeing Series, held at Canterbury Agriculture Show in Christchurch from 12pm.
• All sessions and events are free to attend and are held at the NTA lounge, located next to the show office. Register to guarantee a spot on the day at surveymonkey.com/r/7R83VJ8.

“TruckSafe New Zealand will transform the culture of safety and operational excellence within the transport sector,” concludes Boyce. “We’re proud to support this change and support companies in building a safer now and a safer future for generations to come.”

You can register to receive updates at trucksafe.net.nz.