SafeWork NSW and Transport NSW will lead an investigative task force, it has been announced this week, to examine whether there were any avoidable risks that may have contributed to food delivery rider fatalities across Sydney. There have been five fatalities in the last few months involving food delivery riders.
Kevin Anderson, the Minister for Better Regulation, has explained that the task force will explore any similarities between the incidents, and will work to determine what appropriate improvements are required for better safety across the industry.
“Every workplace death is a tragedy. Every person who goes to work should come home safely,” Mr Anderson said.
“We have moved to set up this joint Taskforce, that will see SafeWork investigate each incident and make findings for any immediate improvements or compliance activity that can be implemented to better protect these workers.
“The Taskforce will assess the safety measures currently implemented by each food delivery operator, and advise on any improvements needed to prevent further incidents.”
The NSW Centre for Work Health and Safety has already begun research into food delivery services in the gig economy.
“The findings of the Taskforce will also inform existing work that is investigating risks in the gig economy, and potential avenues for regulatory reform to improve safety in this industry,” Mr Anderson said.
Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said the Taskforce was launched to ensure the safety of delivery riders.
“The deaths of these delivery riders are absolutely tragic and if action needs to be taken we will do that,” Mr Constance said.
“Any life lost on our road is one too many and the purpose of this Taskforce is to examine if more can be done to protect delivery riders, who are among some of our most at-risk road users.
“We need to do our level best to avoid further tragedies.”