The Australian Trucking Association has released updated editions of its technical advisory procedures on side underrun protection and conspicuity marking.
The new advisory procedures, known as TAPs, were launched at the ATA’s 2024 Technology and Maintenance Conference in Melbourne last month by former Chair Geoff Crouch.
It is a government requirement for wider Safer Freight Vehicles to be fitted with side underrun protection.
“Side underrun protection devices aim to protect vulnerable road users – pedestrians and cyclists – from falling under the wheels of a truck,” Crouch says.
“The new TAP sets out how to manufacture and fit side underrun protection to a range of vehicle types, with crisp, clear diagrams covering special cases that were raised by operators and overseas experience.
“The wider Safer Freight Vehicles approved by the Australian government last year must be fitted with side underrun protection.
“It’s also a requirement for construction vehicles accredited under the silver standard of the new safety initiative for construction trucks, CLOCS-A, but we recommend that be installed widely.
“During twilight or at night, visibility marking can reduce rear end collisions by up to 41 per cent. It can reduce side collisions by 37 per cent.
“The TAP includes comprehensive advice on how to apply tape to trucks and trailers for a long life, how to maintain the tape and information about unusual cases.”
To view the third edition Side Underrun Protection TAP, click here.
To view the third edition conspicuity marking TAP, click here.
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