Joint operation finds a number of compliance issues and driving offences
Three truck drivers have tested positive to drugs in a one-day blitz by New South Wales Police and the NSW Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) across the state.
Called Operation Containment, the organisations targeted vehicle compliance and inebriated driving, inspecting 286 trucks and trailers, breath testing 107 drivers and drug testing 25.
While no positive alcohol-related tests were returned, three of the 25 drivers tested for illicit substances were found to be under the influence.
While recording a positive result for methylamphetamine, one driver was also found to be driving an unregistered B-double with speeds of up to 113kmh catalogued in its engine control module.
NSW Traffic & Highway Patrol Command’s acting assistant commissioner, David Driver, says the driver, issued with a $1,346 infringement notice for the vehicle, a $630 notice for the contravention of the speed limiter and a 24-hour driving ban pending a court date, was a “a poor example for the industry”.
“[This] is proof why our joint enforcement with NSW Roads and Maritime is important in saving lives on our roads,” he says.
Two other trucks were found to have altered engine control modules during the operation, while 37 traffic offence notices were also issued.
Of the 286 trucks and trailers inspected, 93 defects and 12 weight breaches were spotted and 36 drivers were asked to properly secure their loads.
RMS director safety and compliance Peter Wells says it was a “reminder to the logistics industry and transport operators on securing their loads.”
“People loading or unloading trucks must pay attention and ensure their loads are secured. If loads are loose or fall off a truck, there are very obvious risks to safety for everyone,” he says.
“We will enforce the law with very heavy penalties on people who continue to disregard the law and risk public safety.”