Safety first for John West Logistics
Brisbane-based operator ticks all the safety boxes with its latest addition, a new Mack TridentWhen Queensland operator John West Logistics ordered its latest truck, a Mack Trident, safety was a top priority.
The Brisbane-based firm specialises in challenging haulage tasks like transporting glass, steel and concrete, with half its fleet of over 250 trucks fitted with mounted cranes. Loading and unloading therefore constitutes a high-risk environment – one where skilled, professional operators are essential for avoiding accidents.
Stringent approach
Managing Director John West has over 40 years of experience in the transport and logistics industry, and says the firm's stringent approach to safety has stood it in good stead over the years.
"We have a low incident rate in terms of injuries and accidents," he says.
"I put a lot of this down to the induction program we have all employees undertake."
The approach also extends to the trucks at the heart of the business, with the latest addition – a new Mack Trident – sporting the latest Bendix Wingman Fusion suit of safety features.
The Bendix system packages together things like blind-spot alert, autonomous emergency braking and roll stability, assisting the driver to head off collisions or accidents before they occur.
Under the bonnet, meanwhile, is a Volvo Group MP8 engine. The powerhouse delivers up to 535hp, put down to the ground via a 12-speed mDrive automated manual transmission.
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First Trident
"This is our first Mack with the full safety package and I'm all for it," says West.
"Our company motto is 'Think safe, be safe', and this truck aligns to where our thinking is."
The truck is actually JWL's first Trident, as the business usually buys Mack Granites.
It certainly stands out in its 'Australian made' green and gold livery, and indeed it was its local construction that was another major drawcard that led to its purchase.
"Australian made is important to me," says West, "and being a true Aussie born on Australia day, I thought I'd like to see a truck in Aussie colours with our company name and logo on it."
The truck, which JWL specified in a day cab format, will now be pressed into service over a variety of freight tasks throughout south-eastern Queensland.
Training is key
JWL says it incorporates safety and compliance into every aspect of its business, while thorough training also forms a big part of that approach.
"We put a lot of effort into training our staff before they are allowed to go solo," says West.
"We are very proud of our safety record, even if we've had a couple of speed bumps over the years."
JWL has its own in-house driver apprenticeship program that takes applicants through basic key elements of transport with participants finishing the course with both a job and a medium-rigid truck licence.
"We are fortunate to have so many very loyal people in the NZ and Aussie operations and as a result, a great employee retention rate," he says.
"Aussie-built safety is a great fit our company culture."
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