Applications open from end of May in voluntary approach to reform
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) will accept applications for approval for Electronic Work Diaries (EWDs) from May 28, after releasing the final consultation report today.
The national regulator is satisfied EWDs will provide a “sustainable and effective voluntary alternative” to written work diaries (WWDs) to record work and rest hours for heavy vehicle drivers.
“There are more than 200,000 written work diaries purchased every year, including many by drivers who are already using electronic systems to assist in managing their work and rest hours,” NHVR productivity and safety executive director Geoff Casey says.
“I’d like to thank all the operators and organisations that took the time to provide feedback during the consultation period earlier this year.
“After reviewing the feedback, I am satisfied that the issues raised have or will be addressed and the development of EWDs as a voluntary option for drivers can begin.
“From next month, we will be in a position to start receiving and assessing applications for approval from technology providers and transport operators who have advised their intention to develop an EWD.
“I’d expect to see EWD products available for drivers in the coming months.”
The statement comes a month after the compliance policy was released three months after the NHVR sought further input and four months after the policy framework and standards document was released.
The NHVR received 25 submissions during the consultation period between December and February.
In the Notice of Final Rule Making 1702 released today, the NHVR says it “clarifies how operators would be treated fairly”, whether using written work diaries or EWDs, including outlining that drivers can make manual entries at any time prior to accepting the information at the end of their work day.
Some criticism of the policy framework came from the South Australian Road Transport Association (SARTA) in January.
The NHVR will review candidate systems against the EWD Standards and a list of EWDs that have been approved will be available on the NHVR website.
The NHVR had also agreed to waive any regulatory fees for companies or individuals submitting candidate systems for approval.
“We’ve also been working closely with authorised officers and police to inform them of the type of information they’ll see under the EWD Compliance View,” Casey says.
For further information or to view the Notice of Final Rule Making 1702, visit www.nhvr.gov.au/ewd