NHVR seeks operator input on future safety reforms
A review of the livestock supply chain is targeting key areas where Chain of Responsibility (COR) laws apply to the movement of sheep and cattle.
Announced and orchestrated by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), the review calls for operator feedback on future safety reforms across the livestock chain.
According to the Livestock Supply Chain Issues Paper, movement of sheep and cattle makes up about 4 per cent of the national freight task, but accounts for over 10 per cent of accidents, including a significant number of rollovers.
The average livestock journey from the farm gate to the processor is estimated to be over 500km, involving stops and transfers between feedlots, saleyards, vehicles and spelling.
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto unveiled the review at the Livestock, Bulk and Rural Carriers Association (LBRCA) 2020 Conference in Tamworth.
“We’ve identified a range of issues including loading practices, understanding of mass management and general understanding of regulatory responsibilities,” Petroccitto says.
“There are a number of questions raised about why overloading occurs, the pressures on drivers and how the livestock supply chain are meeting their safety responsibilities.”
Petroccitto says the need for further guidance around livestock loading practices followed a review last year by the NHVR into Improvement Notices issued to Forbes and Dubbo saleyards.
“It’s important we look at what we can do to make these journeys as safe as possible for drivers, livestock and other road users.” he adds.
“We are seeking responses to a series of questions about opportunities to improve mass management awareness and practices, and identify tools that will help members of the livestock supply chain in meeting their safety and regulatory responsibilities.”
The Livestock Supply Chain Review issues paper and submissions link is here.
The NHVR also announced an industry-wide safety survey earlier this week
Meanwhile, the Australian Livestock and Rural Transporters’ Association (ALRTA) reports a draft National Ramp Standard has been developed and is available for public comment.
The Draft Standard has been developed by Standards Australia in consultation with the livestock supply chain, and is largely based on the ALRTA’s National Guidelines for Ramps and Forcing Yards published in 2015.
The ALRTA National Animal Welfare Committee will discuss the draft on 25 March 2020 and public commentary is open until 27 April 2020.
The Draft Standard is available here.