Vehicles as a workplace
We were surprised to find out that between July and November this year the LCA HRS team processed claims for just over 225,500 kilometres for service-related travel in personal cars!
It’s a timely reminder that this travel undertaken for work purposes falls under Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) legislative requirements. WHS laws in Australia are generally harmonised and similar principles apply in New Zealand. While there is some variation between jurisdictions, generally, a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU – in our context this is generally a parish or congregation council) must ensure the health and safety of workers and other persons while workers are at work.
This means that PCBUs must do all that is reasonably practicable to manage the risks associated with the use of vehicles, both on public roads and on private property.
Australian state and territory WHS and road safety authorities have collaborated to develop the Vehicles as a Workplace guide, designed to support individuals and organisations who use vehicles for workplaces on Australian And New Zealand roads.
We know that road trauma leaves a devastating impact on families and communities and while we cannot prevent all accidents, we can work to mitigate risks involved. From making sure vehicles used for work purposes are road worthy, to allowing plenty of time between destinations to enable safe travel, to following the road rules congregations can support those serving them to keep safe on the roads.
