VicRoads introduces flexibility for oversize and overmass compliance regime
The Victorian Transport Association has hailed a reform of the Oversize Overmass (OSOM) Annual Permit Scheme in the state.
VicRoads has “streamlined” the annual permit scheme that sets out the mass and dimension limits and operating conditions for a prime mover, dolly and low loader combination, with acting VicRoads policy and program executive director Anita Curnow saying operators can still use their A, B and C permits that detail mass and dimension limits for different low loader combinations until they expire.
VTA CEO Peter Anderson says the new scheme along with the accompanying increase of mass and dimension limits, reduces the regulatory burden on transport operators as well as VicRoads and local councils.
“Operators of heavy haulage combinations that exceed 49.5 tonnes, 25 metres long, 3.5 metres wide and 4.6 metres high will benefit from greater flexibility when travelling on the Victorian road network,” Anderson says.
“The new OSOM Annual Permit Scheme augments the current A, B and C permits that detail mass and dimension limits for low loader combinations.
“The new permit offers more convenience for operators, with increased mass and dimension limits. It also sets out easily understood operating conditions.
“Operators will no longer need to apply for single trip permits, which involved a route assessment, but rather can apply for the new OSOM Annual Permit Scheme.
“On behalf of the transport industry, the VTA thanks VicRoads for allowing operators to continue to use their A, B and C permits until they expire.”
The reform also opens up an increase in the allowable mass and dimension limits under certain conditions.
“Introducing the new annual permit scheme and increasing the mass and dimension limits, reduces the regulatory burden both on industry, VicRoads and councils,” Curnow says.
Operating conditions have been modified to reflect the increase in mass and dimensions and to mitigate any potential risks. Specifically it allows for combinations to be up to:
- 100 tonnes (when using a dolly)
- 82.5 tonnes (when not using a dolly)
- 5 metres high
- 30 metres long
- 5 metres wide.
“Other dimension limits that aren’t specified in the A, B and C scheme permits, have also been included such as a maximum rear overhang and maximum S-dimension (measured from the kingpin on the prime mover or dolly and the rear overhang line),” Curnow says.
“Travel time restrictions have also been set to ensure that longer and wider combinations do not operate during peak traffic periods of the day.”
The new scheme comes with a user-friendly online map network found on the VicRoads website that shows operators who obtain the new permit where their OSOM combinations may travel.
VicRoads promises the scheme enables easier access to major arterial roads on the network, including most M, A and B roads, many C roads and some local roads.
Last mile access on local government roads that are not already included on the map, as approved or conditionally approved, will require a separate application and consent from the council through the standard permit process.
A driver must still ensure that their vehicle can safely travel on the route. In particular, the driver must make certain that there is sufficient clearance under wires, structures and trees and sufficient ground clearance at rail level crossings, and that any necessary tramlines or rail crossing permits are obtained.
More details can be found here.