The operation conducted throughout the holiday period put an emphasis on maintaining work diaries to help prevent fatigue-related incidents
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has announced the successful conclusion of Operation Forager, a four-week initiative dedicated to combating heavy vehicle driver fatigue during the holiday season.
Commencing on November 20, the NHVR partnered with police across Australia to help raise awareness about the critical nature of managing fatigue while driving heavy vehicles.
The NHVR says the operation represents another step forward in its ongoing commitment to enhance road safety and ensure the wellbeing of both heavy vehicle drivers and the wider community.
NHVR chief operations officer Paul Salvati says that over the four-week operation, NHVR officers conducted more than 5,350 heavy vehicle intercepts across southern and central regions.
“Work diary and fatigue–related education was provided in 623 of these intercepts, accounting for approximately 156 hours of roadside education with drivers and highlighting the NHVR’s commitment to safety within the heavy vehicle industry,” Salvati says.
“Operation Forager shows the effectiveness of our holistic approach to safety that combines education with enforcement.
“It ensures that heavy vehicle operators are not only aware of the regulations, but also equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions on the road about their safety.
“I would like to commend the heavy vehicle industry for their safety efforts over the busy holiday period, particularly during the severe weather events we experienced across the country.”
Salvati says that the operation placed a strong emphasis on the importance of maintaining accurate work diaries, which he says are a critical tool in complying with work and rest hour requirements and preventing fatigue-related incidents.
“By investing significant time and effort in educating heavy vehicle drivers on work diaries and fatigue, especially new drivers, we aim to create a lasting impact that extends beyond the duration of this operation,” Salvati says.
“Education is an investment in safety. By ensuring drivers understand the importance of accurate work diaries, we are arming them with the knowledge to actively manage their work and rest hours.”
Salvati says that while education is a powerful tool in preventing fatigue-related incidents, the NHVR won’t hesitate to enforce the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) when required.
“Of the total intercepts conducted by NHVR officers, 207 resulted in fatigue–related compliance action,” Salvati says.
“Unfortunately, 129 of these offences were detected for drivers exceeding their allowable work hours or not taking adequate periods of rest.
“We want to remind heavy vehicle drivers of the critical importance of practicing safe behaviours, including taking rest and meal breaks.
“If you are on the road and feel the five signs of fatigue such as inattention, irregular body movements, erratic vehicle movements, dull sensory alertness or poor concentration, take a break.”