Ensuring safety in commercial transport industry

THE recent report about the Road Transport Department (JPJ) detecting 14 bus drivers under the influence of prohibited substances is a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking within our commercial transport industry.

At a briefing with the press, JPJ senior director of enforcement Lokman Jamaan said the drivers were detected during the Special Ops on Public Service Vehicles held nationwide in conjunction with the Chinese New Year festival and school holidays.

The report raises questions that demand immediate attention.

1. What is the scale of the problem? Does it occur during festive seasons only? Is it pervasive in the transport industry, encompassing drivers of lorries, buses and other commercial vehicles?

2. Are employers held accountable for the condition of their drivers? While existing laws mandate drug and alcohol testing for commercial drivers, are employers diligently conducting the tests?

3. Does a shortage of qualified drivers compel companies to relax the testing procedures or overlook potential issues, prioritising short-term operational needs over the safety of passengers (in the case of buses) and other road users?

4. Are there loopholes in the current testing protocols that allow individuals to evade detection? Additionally, are the testing methods themselves sufficiently comprehensive in identifying stimulant usage?

5. Beyond stricter enforcement of the law, what other measures can be taken to understand and address the root cause of stimulant usage among the drivers?

The most likely reasons for relying on stimulants are pay structures that encourage drivers to work excessive hours; unrealistic scheduling or pressure to meet quotas; and mental health.

To address the problem of stimulant usage among drivers of commercial vehicles, transport industry players must:

> Conduct regular and comprehensive testing, using advanced methods to ensure wider detection;

> Run mandatory training programmes on the dangers of stimulant use and addiction, along with mental health awareness and stress management techniques;

> Establish confidential reporting systems for drivers to report concerns about using stimulants without fear of retribution; and

> Promote a healthy work-life balance through fair scheduling practices and adequate rest periods.

The safety of everyone on the road is paramount. I therefore urge the authorities, employers and other relevant bodies to work together to investigate the root cause of the problem, strengthen enforcement, and implement comprehensive solutions. Only then can we ensure a safer transport system for everyone.

CHIN YEW SIN

Shah Alam

The writer is author of a book titled “Unlocking the Secret of Making Safe Choices”.