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SA heavy vehicle enforcement busy on Augusta Highway

Operation Crossroads results in hundreds of defects and other offences

 

A recent tour of heavy vehicle compliance operations has moved to South Australia.

Following Operation Outlet in Tasmania, Operation Lorry in Victoria and Operation Sierra Angle in Queensland, the latest one in SA comprised a four-day joint operation between the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) and South Australia Police (SAPOL) on the Augusta Highway between October 9 and October 12.

Though not mentioning how many inspections took place, NHVR reports the results of the operation as the following:

  • 228 defects issued
  • 295 expiations issued
  • 5 cease work notices
  • 2 arrests
  • 15 court reports

Two days after the operation SAPOL reported a B-double rollover on the highway at Port Wakefield.

While no serious injuries were reported, the resulting scene and diesel spill caused a southbound traffic closure.

On the blitz, SAPOL’s Heavy Vehicle Enforcement Section’s Inspector Joanne Howard acknowledges there is room for improvement.

“There were a significant number of defect and expiation notices issued during this operation,” she says.

“The results reveal some companies have more work to do to ensure they maintain a roadworthy fleet.

“Equally, drivers are also responsible for ensuring they take breaks and maintain work diaries.

“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility and police will continue to work with the NHVR and other key partners to keep South Australian’s safe on our roads.”


Industry groups continue to decry the state of the ‘treacherous’ Augusta Hwy


NHVR describes Operation Crossroads 2020 as a local operation with a national impact – focusing on the “crossroads” of Australia.

NHVR director southern region Paul Simionato takes a more conciliatory tone with his assessment of the situation

“NHVR and SAPOL officers from metropolitan and country areas participated in the Operation which concentrated on driver fatigue and roadworthiness.

“These are both very significant safety risks for everyone using our roads.

“I want to acknowledge the good spirit and cooperation from drivers on the road, most were happy to chat to us and were just as focused as we are on safety.

“We always try to take an education-first approach to try and fix up minor issues so drivers can continue on their way safely.”

Simionato says it was important for operators and drivers alike to prioritise safety.

“It’s a timely reminder to take simple steps to make sure you and everyone else on the road can get home safely.

“That means always checking your vehicle for issues before you head off and making sure you’re taking your breaks and filling in your work diary.”

 

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