Safety beyond National Safe Work Month

National Safe Work Month might only run through October, but the need to prioritise safety on worksites doesn’t clock off at the end of the month.

If you’re a tradie, business owner, or anyone who relies on trucks, trailers, or mobile plant & equipment to get the job done, safety’s not just a box to tick. It can mean the difference between a smooth job and a serious setback.

Why safety should stay front of mind

Construction and trades are among the most high-risk industries in Australia. According to Safe Work Australia, the mining, construction, trades and transport sectors have already recorded dozens of fatalities in 2025 — many linked to vehicle collisions, machinery rollovers and falls.

And it’s not just fatalities. Serious injury claims continue to stack up, especially among machinery operators and drivers. Whether you’re digging, building, lifting, towing, things can go wrong quickly without the right precautions.

What are some common safety risks?

While every jobsite is different, a few risks come up again and again:

Vehicle incidents (especially around mobile plant and heavy machinery).
Falls and trips due to poor site organisation.
Fatigue, which leads to slower reaction times and costly mistakes.
Hazardous materials, including exposure to dust, fumes or chemicals.
Poor manual handling and heavy lifting injuries.

Quick safety wins on site

It doesn’t take much to lift your safety game. Here are a few things to keep in mind all year round:

Keep your site tidy – mess creates hazards.
Know your limits – physically and legally. Check people are certified to operate machinery.
Speak up – if something is not safe, take action. Near misses are warning signs.
Use the right PPE – safety vests, signage, and barriers are there for a reason.
Look after your gear – make sure your trucks, trailers and equipment are well-maintained.
Isolate people and plant – clear separation can help keep people safe.
Check before you dig – to help avoid underground surprises.
Use proper controls for excavation work – like benching or shoring, as mentioned in the Code of Practice for Excavation Work.

Resources to help you get it right

Truck & MPE insurance built for tradies

At Truck Assist, we know how important it is to keep your truck and equipment moving — but not at the cost of safety. Our specialist insurance and roadside assistance options are designed to support tradies and operators when the unexpected hits or you’re stuck on the side of the road. Make safety a habit and get an online quote in just a few clicks.