Liability question raised following three-truck pile-up

A recent three-truck pile-up on the N3 near Nottingham road in KwaZulu-Natal has once again focused attention on the industry which transports an estimated 23 million tonnes of freight on our country’s roads every year. “Campaigns usually focus on the drivers and truck owners, but what about the companies who employ their services?” is the question put by Blain Kondiah, managing director of Turners Shipping. “We have a duty to our clients and the public to use transport operators who conduct their business in a responsible manner, complying with legislation and maintaining high standards within the industry.” Turners Shipping has introduced a transporter audit that is completed before a transport operator is used by the company. And this covers everything from ownership of the transport company and legislative compliance and accreditation, to driver training, breakdown procedures and vehicle maintenance programmes. “Turners Shipping is an ISO 9001 company and this audit procedure forms part of our rigorous systems control,” said Kondiah. “It is an ongoing process with regular updates and checks.”