Road managers
Accessibility tools
This R U OK? Day the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is asking everyone across the heavy vehicle industry to look out for their mates and have a yarn about how they're travelling.
Recognised on the second Thursday in September every year, Australia’s national day of action emphasises the power of meaningful conversations and importance of asking "are you ok?" any day.
NHVR Executive Director Corporate Affairs Michelle Tayler said it was particularly important for drivers to look after their health and wellbeing, given the unique challenges that come with life on the road.
“Mental health can affect anyone, and for drivers, long hours behind the wheel, tight deadlines, shift work and time away from family and friends can have an impact on how someone is feeling,” Ms Tayler said.
“Though the road can sometimes be a lonely place, R U OK? Day offers a reminder that we can all play a role in supporting our peers.
“You don’t need to have all the answers – sometimes just listening is enough."
Ms Tayler said research continued to show that feeling connected and supported was one of the strongest protective factors against suicide.
“While it’s normal to worry we might say the wrong thing or be unsure of how someone might respond, these feelings shouldn’t discourage anyone from reaching out to a peer,” she said.
“Members of the heavy vehicle industry can look out for one another by checking in with others – it’s a small action that could go a long way in helping someone who might be struggling.”
Funded by the NHVR's Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative's (HVSI) grant program and supported by the Australian Government, the National Road Safety Partnership Program (NRSPP) recently launched translated versions of its toolbox talk videos.
Available to access for free online, the toolbox talks offer important information for industry and a way to prompt further discussions, with several of the talks focused on mental health.
The newly translated videos aim to help culturally and linguistically diverse communities participate in important conversations around mental wellbeing, and improve accessibility, understanding and engagement among drivers.
NRSPP Independent Chair, Emeritus Professor Jude Charlton said making evidence-based content free and accessible for a wider range of participants was essential to helping connect resources with those most likely to benefit from them.
“A mentally healthy workplace is one that protects and promotes mental health and empowers people to seek help,” Prof. Charlton said.
“Toolbox talks can help those within the heavy vehicle industry create more healthy relationships around mental health, and the translations of our resources mean we can spread the discussion even further.
“For example, the Driving for Work: Health and Well-being package has a range of materials to support leaders or facilitators to start a conversation with their team.”
Ms Tayler said the NHVR would continue looking at ways to support operators to enable healthier workplaces for drivers.
“We all have a part to play helping the people around us feel connected and supported,” she said.
“While the NHVR offers resources for operators and drivers, industry can also show care and support by checking in with others.
“Simply showing someone you’ve noticed can make a real difference.”
To access the newly translated toolbox talk videos, visit the NRSPP website.
For mental health advice for members of the heavy vehicle industry, visit the NHVR website.
To find further information on starting meaningful conversations, visit the R U OK? Day website.