As the U.S. workforce gets larger – and we’re talking body weight here – it’s interesting to note how one Australian company is coping with a lack of svelte job applicants.
A U.S. Post Office in New York carries this familiar creed: “Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds.”
In Australia, they can add “body fat” to the list of obstacles overcome to make sure the mail goes through.
The Australia Post – the Down Under version of the U.S. Postal Service – has increased the maximum weight for “posties” by 33 pounds.
The old weight limit was 198 pounds. Why? Because the Honda motorcycles many posties use has a weight limit of 286 pounds. The extra 88 pounds was for letters.
Now, the Aussie deliverers can weigh up to 231 pounds. The Post will make sure their mail bags are lighter loads.
The union representing mail workers said the old limit had caused recruitment headaches, but the Australia Post denies that, according to a Sydney newspaper.
Those concerned about the safety of the heavier posties on bikes don’t need to worry: Testing shows the heftier riders won’t affect stability, handling or safety.
