Regulator says nine-month investigation uncovered fatigue, work hour and rest transgressions
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) files charges against a national transport company and its executive after a nine-month investigation into the company’s operations.
The NHVR notes it initiates the investigation against the unnamed company following multiple vehicle collisions and Safe-T-Cam footage that allegedly identifies breaches relating to the transport company.
Records for 15 drivers were analysed by NHVR investigators, revealing 225 fatigue and work diary breaches by the company, it says.
A further 54 breaches were detected including contraventions of the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) Act, fatigue regulations and basic fatigue management (BFM) rules, and included administrative errors within National Driver Work Diaries, critical breaches of excess work hours and insufficient rest breaks.
A consignor also faces NHVR charges over COR breaches
“The NHVR will allege that there were significant failings within the company’s scheduling ability and processes,” the regulator notes in a short statement.
“It will also be alleged that the company failed to provide adequate training to staff, or to follow up and address incidents of ongoing fatigue breaches.
“The subsequent risk to public safety was known to the company.”
The matter is listed for a filing hearing in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on May 31, 2021, though ATN is yet to find details in court records.