A new initiative is aiming to tackle brain injuries and concussions in the transport and logistics industry, an issue experts say is widely overlooked.
Road transport safety programme HARMfree Transport and Logistics is partnering with the Laura Fergusson Brain Injury Trust (LFBIT) to roll out a nationwide awareness and support campaign.
The initiative will focus on educating employers and workers about the dangers of head injuries (whether from truck crashes, falls, or even minor knocks while loading goods) and providing structured pathways for recovery.
LFBIT chief executive Kathryn Jones says she’s “thrilled” to collaborate with HARMfree on the initiative.
It will offer educational resources and training aimed at raising awareness about the effects of traumatic brain injury.
This includes the impact of driving following an injury, the available assessment and treatment options, and strategies for preventing further injuries within transport and logistics businesses nationwide, Jones says.
Recognising the signs
HARMfree programme manager John Sansom says brain injuries, including concussions, don’t always present immediate symptoms, meaning many workers may feel “fine” initially but later experience:
- Headaches or migranes
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Blurred vision or sensitivity to light/noise
- Fatigue and difficulty concentrating
- Mood swings or irritability
“Ignoring these signs can prolong recovery and increase safety risks. This is why early recognition and intervention are vital,” Sansom says.
LFBIT is offering a range of specialist services, including rehabilitation, on-road driving assessments, workplace modifications, and psychological support.
HARMfree, meanwhile, is providing its Recovery at Work (RAW) resources, which include educational videos, policies, and guidance on alternative duties to help workers safely transition back into their roles.
“One of the biggest challenges for workers recovering from brain injuries is a sense of isolation. To combat this, LFBIT runs the Helpful Heads Peer Support Programme, connecting injured workers with others who have been through similar experiences,” Sansom says.
HARMfree and LFBIT are also encouraging transport businesses to adopt better workplace policies that normalise conversations about brain injuries, ensuring early detection and safe return-to-work processes.
As part of the initiative, HARMfree and LFBIT will host a HARMfree Connect event at the TMC Trucking Industry Show in Canterbury on March 7.
The session will cover:
- The impact of brain injuries on the transport sector
- How to recognise and manage concussions in the workplace
Employers and industry leaders are encouraged to attend and learn more about improving workplace safety.
*Click here to register or go to lfbit.co.nz and harmfreetransport.nz/recovery-at-work for more information.
