NHVR environmental risk allegations sparked by AdBlue breach
A second South Australian firm in a month is hit with National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) primary duty offences, this time relating to ‘engine remapping’ allegations.
NHVR notes the charges stem from a South Australia Police (Sapol) operation last June.
It will be argued inspections then revealed the vehicle was not using AdBlue, suggesting its emissions control system had been tampered with.
Other heavy vehicles registered to the company were then checked, forming the basis of additional charges, with NHVR alleging the operator disabled the emission controls on the heavy vehicles.
The company, unnamed at this point, has been charged under section 26H (category 3) offence for breaching its primary duty to eliminate or minimise the risk of harm to the environment.
It has also been charged with four offences of tampering with emissions controls systems and four offences of operating a heavy vehicle other than in accordance with the manufacturer’s design.
NHVR and Police raided a Sunshine Coast premises recently
NHVR executive director of statutory compliance Ray Hassall says emissions tampering causes significant health and environmental risks.
“Engine remapping is inconsistent with the primary duty to ensure safety under the HVNL, as the resultant increased emissions have the potential to harm the health of the driver and other members of the community,” Hassall notes.
“We know that truck drivers, who are constantly exposed to high levels of diesel emissions, suffer higher rates of diesel-related illnesses, including cancer, heart disease and asthma.
“Operating in a compliant way levels the playing field and supports the health and safety of drivers in their workplace.”
The matter is first before the Berri Magistrates’ Court on 24 March 2021.