The NZ Trucking Association’s road safety initiative has been given an independent tick of approval.
The organisation’s Safety MAN truck project was launched in August 2017 to teach people about sharing the road with heavy vehicles in an effort to prevent crashes and rollovers.
It also teaches drivers about staying healthy and factors that contribute towards fatigue – one of the biggest causes of crashes where a truck driver is at fault.
The project has already reached 11,000 participants through visits to schools, community groups and events.
The programme has now been independently evaluated by engineering consultancy group Beca to see if it was making an impact.
The feedback concluded there are positive behaviour changes because of the programmes which can contribute to less deaths and serious injuries on New Zealand roads.
NZ Trucking chief executive Dave Boyce says it’s an “amazing result”.
“It’s so rewarding to have this result, proven independently, that our programmes are changing behaviour on the road, which is saving lives and serious injuries.
“This is what we set out to do and this is what we are achieving.
“Some argue that one-off visits don’t work to change peoples’ behaviour but if that one-off visit is interactive and engaging and supported with good resources, then it’s now proven that they can work.
“Having a program that raises awareness by giving participants a memorable experience they can learn from, is lifesaving,” Boyce says.
The Safety MAN truck project was made possible thanks to the support of industry suppliers and key sponsors.
However, more sponsorship is required so the programme can meet the demand of requested visits as it’s run by the NZ Trucking Association and volunteers.
*Go to roadsafetytruck.co.nz for more information or contact Carol McGeady on 021 252 7252 if you would like to become a sponsor.
