As the Transport Workers Union has pointed out, if this happened in any other field of business there would be a national outcry.

One of the most disturbing aspects of the TWU campaign unveiled in Bendigo yesterday is the belief that there is a distinct link between rates of pay and safety.

Drivers who are pushed too hard or who feel under too much pressure to arrive at their destination more rapidly are at far greater risk of being involved in an accident - putting their own safety and that of other road users at increased risk.

One shocking statistic revealed by Safe Work Australia shows that road freight workers are more than 13 times more likely to be killed at work than employees in other industries.

Clearly, these are numbers that cannot be accepted. The status quo should not be an option.

The vast majority of road freight operators work within the existing guidelines and rules, but anyone who does not should be brought to account before there are far more drastic consequences for everyone involved.

Employees are any company’s greatest asset, and the safety of those employees in the workplace is paramount.

And when that workplace is something as public as our major roads and highways, a rule breach or accident all too often ends with permanent consequences.

What do you think?

Write a letter to the editor, or e-mail editor@bendigoadverti ser.com.au