HVSI-backed project aims to reduce breaches and increase safety
A new safety campaign focusing on correct load restraint, launched by New South Wales local councils and backed by the federal government, aims to reduce the number of dangerously loaded trucks operating on regional roads.
The Load Restraint Public Education Campaign, initiated by the Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan shire councils and funded under the federal Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI), will see new ‘how to’ load-restraint videos and factsheets shared with local businesses, as well as a social media awareness campaign and a series of load restraint information sessions across the three shires.
The project received $60,500 under the HVSI program, administered by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).
“This is an important project following several local incidents and an increase in the volume of heavy vehicle traffic in the region,” federal transport minister Michael McCormack says.
“It will help educate transport operators, along with the farms and businesses they serve, in safe load restraint.
“Heavy vehicles help connect so much of regional Australia and projects such as this will ensure that vehicles and drivers act in a safe manner at all times.
“The Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan shire councils are to be congratulated for initiating this project and I hope more councils follow their lead in an effort to enhance the safety of their local communities and those that travel through them.”
How HVSI backed another safety video series, here
The strength of the region’s farming, mining, forestry and construction sectors has seen a steady growth in heavy vehicle traffic, with one truck passing through the townships of Forbes, Parkes and Peak Hill every minute.
Forbes Shire Council mayor Phyllis Miller notes that local police issued 72 notices for load restraint breaches in 2019.
“Safety is a high priority for the heavy vehicle industry, but there are still too many knowledge gaps when it comes to load restraint,” Miller says.
“It’s important that all businesses recognise they have a part to play in heavy vehicle safety under 2018 Chain of Responsibility amendments.
“This project will aid in removing any doubts about how heavy vehicles should be loaded.”
According to the NHVR, HVSI has so far allocated $22.8 million through 89 separate grants over the past five years.
“Improving heavy vehicle safety and safety for all drivers is the top priority of the NHVR,” NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto sayssays.
“I look forward to continuing to work with governments and stakeholder groups to ensure that heavy vehicles and those that operate them travel safely and arrive safely.”
The Load Restraint Guide is available here, while the following videos have been released to accompany the campaign:
Meanwhile, a Load Restraint Quiz, where entrants can go in the draw to win $500 worth of load restraint equipment, is available here.