'We haven't really had a break'
COVID-19 has negatively impacted the wellbeing of 60% of trucking company owners, according to a new report from Transporting New Zealand, which added that they are under "increased levels of stress and anxiety, financial pressure, and fatigue and tiredness."
"Costs are going up and we believe one in five trucking companies is financially compromised," said Transporting NZ chief executive Nick Leggett. "That pressure also extends to our workforce and 60% of truck drivers have also told us that the pandemic has affected their mental health negatively as well."
In addition, about 40% of employers and employees within the industry are also reporting "steady levels" of fatigue and tiredness.
Read more: Mental health: Are employees 'too busy' to seek help?
Transporting NZ, which described the findings as "concerning," attributed the situation to the industry continuously working without a break amid the pandemic, before later suffering from volatility of fuel prices.
"The industry worked hard carrying New Zealand through COVID-19, keeping the shelves stocked and ensuring the supply chain continued to be operational. We haven't really had a break," Leggett said. "And now the world has been plunged into new challenges that have impacted the trucking industry, like international fuel price volatility and supply chain disruption."
On the other hand, the report also found that trucking companies provided their employees with better support, including updating health and safety policies and processes, providing clear communication and guidance to staff, and ensuring PPE availability.
"Heading into Mental Health Awareness Week, we were pleased to see that trucking companies are generally providing good support to their workers, with employees rating the assistance provided a seven out of 10," Leggett said in a separate statement. "Negative wellbeing impacts have also lessened for both employers and employees as we moved through the pandemic."
Read more: Mental Health Week: How to spot an employee who's secretly struggling
The survey was a part of Transporting New Zealand's ongoing COVID-19 Response Project, which aims to provide practical help to members of the road freight industry.
"These include emergency health and wellness assistance to support well-being in your organisation and help your team get and stay in the right space mentally. This is an exciting opportunity and will provide real long-term benefit for the whole industry," Leggett said.
In addition, Leggett also reminded employers that they can always reach out to Transporting NZ should they face challenges in the future.
"There are people prepared to help and support you,” he said. “Have conversations with those running the company and with your staff, stay connected with your staff, keep active, and stay healthy."
