NHVR encourages industry members to meet and discuss their issues during upcoming events
The new registered industry codes of practice (RICP) guidelines will help the heavy vehicle supply chain industry improve safety standards by highlighting risks associated with the operating environments of different sectors, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) states.
Releasing the new set of guidelines today, NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto says that industry members will receive monetary and technical assistance from the regulator “to offset some costs associated with the development and assessment process”.
NHVR manager chain of responsibility Michael Crellin says the new codes will help operators manage their unique risks “autonoumously”.
“These guidelines will provide direction on what an RICP should contain, how it must be prepared and proposed systems for addressing safety,” Crellin says.
“Businesses adopting RICPs will be able to better meet their HVNL [Heavy Vehicle National Law] obligations, and enhance safety by addressing risks specific to their industry and operating environment.”
A team of NHVR officers will assist code developers throughout the process.
“The NHVR will provide a number of tools and staff to support code developers during the transition,” Petroccitto says.
“I’m also pleased to be able to provide some financial assistance, with the support of the federal government, to offset some costs associated with the development and assessment process.”
Federal transport and infrastructure minister Darren Chester has announced a $350,000 assistance package for this cause.
The new codes will result in changes to six existing codes, Petroccitto warns.
However, the current codes will remain in place until January 2018 or until officially replaced.
NHVR is encouraging industry members to meet with the regulator to discuss potential issues during the upcoming meetings.
Calendar for the proposed events: