POPULAR WORDS

December 18, 2009

VicRoads will allow the combinations that meet the second level of performance based standards (PBS) to carry 57.5 tonnes on the b-double and higher mass limits (HML) network.

The decision to increase the mass limit from 50 tonnes follows a comprehensive assessment process over the past year.

The Director of VictRoads Vehicle Management and Safety, Don Hogben, says the department assessed a number of seven-axle truck and dog combinations.

“The results have shown that well designed truck and dog trailers at up to 57.5 tonnes and 20 metres long are dynamically stable and can pass all the PBS level two standards,” Hogben says.

“This is great news for operators of truck and trailer combinations, especially those involved in quarrying and construction.”

The extra mass means there will be significant benefits for operators and the environment, according to Victorian Transport Association CEO Philip Lovel.

He says the 7.5 tonne increase equals a 15 percent productivity gain for operators.

“Over time this will mean a reduction in the number of trucks and trailers on Victoria’s roads for the same freight task, which will not only reduce congestion but will also see a decrease in carbon emissions,” Lovel says.

“Furthermore these vehicles will be safer as they’ve passed a PBS assessment.”

Tony Baxter from the Cement Concrete and Aggregates Australia welcomed VicRoads decision and called it an encouraging move.

“All road users will benefit from initiatives such as these and we look forward to continuing to work with VicRoads and local authorities to improve the way construction materials are transported for the benefit of our industry and the community,” Baxter says.

VicRoads says there are more than 2,000 truck and trailer combinations in Victoria transporting quarry products such as cement, sand, rock, pre-mixed concrete and asphalt.