The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has today started its latest heavy vehicle compliance operation, with Operation Amplify targeting operations in Tasmania’s building and construction industries.
The operation will see NHVR Safety and Compliance Officers (SCOs) begin roadside inspections in high activity areas across Hobart, Launceston and Burnie, ensuring heavy vehicles are roadworthy and that drivers are meeting work and rest requirements.
The operation follows recent compliance operations that identified safety risks within the building and construction industry.
NHVR acting executive director of on-road operations Steve Miller says previous operations across the state had revealed high rates of non-compliance.
“Almost 30 per cent of heavy vehicles intercepted during similar operations were found to be non-compliant, with mechanical issues identified as the highest area of non-compliance,” he says.
“Load restraint was another area of significant concern, particularly unsecured tools and construction materials.
“Any type of unsecured load can impact a heavy vehicle’s stability, steering and brake performance, placing drivers and other road users at serious risk.”
Miller says SCOs would also be checking work diaries to ensure drivers are complying with their work and rest requirements.
“Fatigue remains one of the most significant contributors to serious incidents,” he says.
“Our officers will be paying close attention to fatigue management, because no-one should be behind the wheel if they’re not fit to drive, and no load is worth your life.
“If a heavy vehicle driver feels pressured to operate while fatigued, they can contact the Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Line which is available Monday to Friday, 7am-4:30pm AEST.”