Efforts made by distribution and retail companies commended at safety workshop
The heavy vehicle supply chain sector has made “significant progress” to improve safety ahead of upcoming changes to the chain of responsibility (COR) laws, the national regulator states.
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) and the Australian Logistics Council (ALC) have praised the efforts of many leading distribution and retail companies in improving heavy vehicle safety before the new laws come into effect mid-next year.
The peak logistics body reiterates the value of an industry master code that is capable of meeting and managing common risks faced by heavy vehicle operators.
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Speaking at a safety workshop hosted by Metcash, Coles, Woolworths and Bluescope, NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto says the national regulator has been assisting supply chain participants to transition to the new laws.
“During this year we have worked closely with many companies including owners of major distribution centres to ensure their safety management systems will meet the provisions of the new laws,” Petroccitto says.
“Under the new laws coming in mid-2018, the entire heavy vehicle supply chain will be required to take steps to deliver a safer road transport industry with many companies looking to transition to, or improve their existing safety management systems.”
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ALC MD Michael Kilgariff says the industry is taking proactive steps to ensure compliance with the new laws.
“Today’s workshop represents an important step in the evolution of ALC’s Retail Logistics Safety Code (RLSC), which was first established in 2006,” Kilgariff says.
“The discussions today will help ensure the RLSC remains an effective tool for delivering safety improvements as industry transitions to the new laws.
“ALC’s commitment to supporting improved industry safety also includes our effort with the Australian Trucking Association (ATA) to develop a Master Code for heavy vehicle safety, capable of being registered under the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL).
“The Master Code will make it easier for duty holders to understand their obligations, and develop appropriate risk management processes.”