National regulator responds to NSW fatalities spike
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is to fast-track safety tools and an education campaign to assist heavy vehicle operators implement safety management systems.
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto says the push to provide operators with practical tools and guidance to implement safety management systems was in response to a spate of serious heavy vehicle crashes in recent days.
The NHVR is urging heavy vehicle drivers to take care following recent tragic incidents near Lake Macquarie, Grafton and Dubbo.
“I am urging all road users and in particular heavy vehicle operators across Australia to take extra care on the road as the school holiday season comes to an end,” Petroccitto says.
“The NHVR will release a range of guidance and support tools in the coming months to assist heavy vehicle operators to improve safety and also help them meet new Chain of Responsibility laws, which will be introduced in mid-2018.”
It notes that, nationally, there were 216 fatalities involving heavy vehicles for the year to the end of September 2017, compared with 224 deaths over the same period the previous year.
“Our thoughts are also with the five drivers who won’t return home to their families as a result of these three tragic accidents,” Petroccitto says.
“These new laws will require the entire heavy vehicle supply chain to take responsibility for heavy vehicle safety.
“We’ve seen the number of heavy vehicle fatalities across Australia decline in recent years, but the toll is still too high and we want to see that downward trend continue.
“Heavy vehicle operators are also responsible for ensuring their vehicle is roadworthy and therefore safe to travel on the road network.
“There are some simple steps operators should take such as a regular safety checklist for maintenance, mass, loading and fitness for duty including fatigue.
“Something as simple as a daily check can ensure the safety of both the driver and other road users by giving operators confidence their vehicle and driver are in good working order.”
The latest NHVR heavy vehicle safety resources can be found here.