The recent sentencing of a former company executive for his role in the April 2020 Eastern Freeway crash in Melbourne is a sobering reminder of the critical need to follow health and safety standards. Now serving a jail sentence of up to three years for his reckless workplace behaviour, he provides a very real reminder of what’s at stake when managers fail to properly deal with worker fatigue and drug and alcohol use in the workplace.
The incident, which occurred on the Eastern Freeway in Melbourne in April 2020, involved a truck driver colliding with police officers while they were undergoing a routine traffic stop. The truck driver, who was found to have been fatigued and affected by drugs at the time of the accident, has been jailed for 22 years for his negligence.
In a recent court ruling, his manager has been found guilty of failing to adhere to health and safety standards, contributing to the fatal accident. Specifically, it was alleged that the trucking company failed to ensure their drivers were assessed and monitored for fatigue, alcohol and other drugs. Further, the manager’s mindset to “get the job done at all costs” was seen as a contributing factor in the accident.
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The tragedy emphasises the importance of prioritising employee well-being and safety. Employers must actively implement and enforce measures to combat fatigue, ensuring proper rest for workers. Additionally, stringent checks for drug and alcohol use are imperative to prevent impaired performance in safety-sensitive roles.
DASA has been working with workplaces for over 15 years to rigorously manage substance-related risks. We know that proactive measures can prevent similar tragedies and foster safer environments for employees and the communities they serve. If you would like to know more, contact John today on 1300 230 231 or via email to john.demellow@dasa.net.au
DASA (Drug and Alcohol Solutions Australia) is proud to be leading the way in workplace drug and alcohol testing services throughout Australia. Whether your need is for workplace drug and workplace alcohol testing, advice on drug and alcohol policy or ideas on how to communicate your workplace expectations, policies and procedures to your staff, DASA can help. We have the experience, technical expertise and people to lead you to the right solution.