NHVR (70)
ON THE ROAD Issue 139
on 2022-05-13 05:48:10
by
Donna
Posted in
NHVR
Issue 139 | 10 May 2022With National Road Safety Week kicking off this Sunday, we are reminding all road users of their responsibility to ensure everyone goes to work and arrives home safely.During the Week, our staff will be out on the road chatting to drivers and industry, to help answer any safety and heavy vehicle related questions. I also encourage you to join me in participating in a R U OK? In Trucks and Sheds workplace event on 17 May, the link provided here gives you access to a wide of range of tools and resources for your event.It is timely that during National Road Safety Week, the NHVR will be joining industry and the states in a Heavy Vehicle National Law Review workshop to help pursue improved law reforms, including importantly delivering safer and more flexible fatigue outcomes. This will be the second workshop facilitated by the independent adviser to the Review, with a report outlining the outcomes due to ministers in the next few months.I am proud to announce the release of the latest season of OzHelp Health in Gear’s Share The Load podcast, which details drivers’ stories on how they look after their mind and body.Be sure to be following our Facebook page during the week where we will be encouraging everyone to pledge to drive so others survive.Sal, CEOHeavy vehicle safety focus for National Road Safety WeekThe NHVR is urging all road users to take care around heavy vehicles, ahead of the 2022 National Road Safety Week.NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said National Road Safety Week was also a timely reminder for truck drivers to make sure they were operating safety.“To support National Road Safety Week, our staff will be out and about across the country, so no matter which major freight route you’re travelling on, drop in for a chat,” Sal said.> Find out more about National Road Safety WeekRoadside info sessions for National Road Safety WeekTo support National Road Safety Week, the NHVR’s Stakeholder Engagement team will host truck driver information sessions on Thursday 19 May across major freight routes in Victoria, NSW, Queensland and SA.In response to customer feedback, the NHVR is committed to meeting more truck drivers in person, on the road. For these events, drivers are encouraged to drop in for a chat, discuss any issues they face and find out how the NHVR can help.> Click here for the full event detailsNew season of heavy vehicle podcast helps industry Share The LoadThe OzHelp Foundation’s (OzHelp) Health in Gear program has launched their second season of the Share The Load podcast in preparation for National Road Safety Week.NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto congratulated OzHelp on the podcast’s second season, which features truck drivers’ stories on the health and wellbeing issues they face.“Heavy vehicle operators and drivers, like everyone, need tools and resources to maintain their mental and physical health and stay safe on our roads,” Sal said.“National Road Safety Week provides an important opportunity to shine a light on the importance of road safety and reflect on the role we all play in making roads safer for everyone.” OzHelp CEO Darren Black said episodes don’t shy away from the difficult topics such as depression and alcohol and drug use.“By creating a safe and open dialogue, we better connect with our audience and provide health and wellbeing advice that will keep our roads safe, and our industry moving,” Darren said.> Find out more about the second season of the Share The Load podcastNominations open for local government bridge and culvert assessmentsLocal councils are encouraged to submit their applications for funded bridge and culvert engineering assessments through the NHVR’s Strategic Local Government Asset Assessment Project (SLGAAP).The SLGAAP is designed to support local governments in better understanding their asset capability and heavy vehicle access decisions.“For this intake of nominations, we’ll provide assessments of local government road assets along key freight routes that deliver whole of network journey outcomes,” Sal said.“Each assessment includes an engineering report that enables road managers to better understand their asset’s true heavy vehicle capability, to help make informed decisions on network access.”Nominations close Wednesday 8 June 2022.To find out more about the selection criteria and how to nominate visit https://nhvr.engagementhub.com.au/page/nominations-now-openHeavy Vehicle Toolbox TalksThe National Road Safety Partnership Program will release monthly evidence-based Toolbox Talks (TBT) designed specifically for the heavy vehicle sector.The first TBT is on Driver Distraction, with a digital resources pack to assist managers to lead a discussion on the dangers of mobile phone use when while driving, to a group of employees within the organisation.Future topics include fatigue, habits and complacency, pre-start checks, loading/unloading heavy vehicles, driver empowerment, and managing anger behind the wheel.The TBT project is funded by the NHVR’s Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative, supported by the Federal Government.> Find out more about NRSPP’s heavy vehicle Toolbox TalksRegulatory Advice explores the safety risks of time slot bookingsThe latest in a series of regulatory advice from the NHVR addresses the risks of tight delivery schedules and pick-up times in the heavy vehicle industry.The demand on drivers and other workers to meet stringent time slot requirements may result in pressures to make up time, which can result in driving while fatigued, breaking speed limits, or the rushed loading or unloading of vehicles. These behaviours can result in serious health and safety hazards.This guidance from the national regulator clearly defines who has a duty to manage these safety risks in the Chain of Responsibility (CoR) and offers advice on control measures and strategies to mitigate those risks.Read the new regulatory advice on ‘Managing the risks of time slot bookings’The NHVR’s regulatory advice pieces are helping the industry to better understand CoR laws and how best to manage the safety risks and hazards of heavy vehicle transport activities.View more regulatory advice from the NHVR here.Don’t forget to register for your free Fatigue Choices consultationThe next round of our Fatigue Choices program is open to operators who wish to learn more about flexible fatigue management options for their business.The program includes free, one-on-one consultations where operators can discuss their fatigue management options with a member of the NHVR’s Fatigue and Human Factors team.The sessions are conducted online, take less than an hour, and there’s nothing operators need to do to prepare.Sessions book out quickly, so please register your interest here.Consider a career with the NHVRWe value staff with a genuine belief in the work they do and the benefit it will bring.www.nhvr.gov.au/careersConnect with us on social media Having troubles viewing this email? Please click here to view online.Get in touch13 NHVR (13 64 87)www.nhvr.gov.au Enjoying On The Road?Forward this email to share with a friend or click here to subscribe another address.
ON THE ROAD Issue 138
on 2022-04-29 03:02:06
by
Donna
Posted in
NHVR
Issue 138 | 28 April 2022It’s been a particularly busy two weeks on our roads with school holidays, and the Easter and ANZAC Day long weekends. I’d like to thank everyone in the heavy vehicle industry for your commitment to your own safety and the safety of other roads users during this time.This week we released our latest regulatory advice, which focuses on the construction industry. It reminds heavy vehicle operators and their executives of their Chain of Responsibility legal obligations, and how to manage safety risks and hazards. You can read more below.We know safety extends beyond transport activities, and having regular and meaningful conversations with your workmates can make all the difference to each other’s mental health.Healthy Heads in Truck & Sheds Foundation and R U OK? is inviting the heavy vehicle industry and supply chain to host their own R U OK? in Trucks & Sheds event on 17 May. I encourage you to get involved, continue to check in with one another and ask, are you OK?Sal, CEOCompany and manager charged for chicken truck crashCharges have been laid against a transport company and sub-contracted manager after a heavy vehicle transporting live chickens crashed at Remembrance Drive in Cardigan, Victoria, in February 2020.Victoria Police Heavy Vehicle Unit conducted an extensive investigation into the crash, which led to the current category 1 and 2 charges under the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL). The charges refer to a breach of duty creating risk of serious injury, illness, or death.NHVR Director of Prosecutions Belinda Hughes said the heavy vehicle driver, who had told his boss he needed to rest, was lucky to escape with his life.“The company and manager are now being charged with the most serious offences under the HVNL for failing to fulfil their primary duty obligations, which put the driver and other road users at serious risk,” Belinda said.The matter will next be heard on 20 May 2022 at The Melbourne Magistrates’ Court in Victoria.Regulatory Advice for heavy vehicles in the construction industry now availableManaging the hazards and risks associated with heavy vehicles in the construction industry is the latest subject in the NHVR’s new regulatory advice series.Based on reports from compliance officers and the 2021 National Roadworthiness Survey, heavy vehicles have an observed pattern of non-compliance when used in construction activities.As projects pick up across the country, the NHVR will be increasing its safety and compliance activities, with a focus on Chain of Responsibility (CoR) in the construction industry.The regulatory advice explains the CoR laws and is tailored to address the concerns of industry executives as well as heavy vehicle operators.For construction company or construction contractor executives: read ‘Managing the risks of heavy vehicle transport activities in the construction industry – Principal Contractor’For construction heavy vehicle operators and their executives: read ‘Managing the risks of heavy vehicle transport activities in the construction industry – Operators’We will keep you updated as more topics are added to the series. In the meantime, you can view more regulatory advice here.R U OK? in Trucks & ShedsR U OK? and Healthy Heads in Truck & Sheds have teamed up to ensure those in the road transport, warehousing and logistics industries know when and how to meaningfully connect and genuinely ask “Are you OK?”Life’s ups and downs happen to us all, but those working in the road transport, warehousing, and logistics industries can face unique challenges.Tight deadlines, long hours, shift work and isolation are all factors that contribute to feeling less connected.One thing we can all do, is drive conversations with our work mates who might be doing it tough, to help them feel connected and supported at work.Show your support by hosting an ‘R U OK? in Trucks & Sheds’ event at your workplace on 17 May 2022.> Click here for more information and register your R U OK? in Trucks & Sheds eventPerformance Based Standards access to the road networkThe NHVR would like to remind owners of Performance Based Standards (PBS) vehicle combinations to check that their PBS Vehicle Approval (VA) is valid and up to date.Please be aware that the PBS Vehicle Approval is not an authorisation to access the road network. You must comply with the relevant Notice or obtain an access permit. To apply for an access permit, please visit the NHVR Portal.For more information on PBS Notices visit:National Class 2 PBS Level 1 & 2a Truck and Dog Trailer Authorisation Notice 2021 (No.1)National Class 2 Performance Based Standards (High Productivity) Authorisation NoticeNational Class 2 Performance Based Standards (Tier 1) Authorisation Notice 2021Got questions? Email us info@nhvr.gov.au with ‘Attn PBS’ in the email subject line.Consider a career with the NHVRWe value staff with a genuine belief in the work they do and the benefit it will bring.www.nhvr.gov.au/careersConnect with us on social media Having troubles viewing this email? Please click here to view online.Get in touch13 NHVR (13 64 87)www.nhvr.gov.au Enjoying On The Road?Forward this email to share with a friend or click here to subscribe another address.
ON THE ROAD Issue 137
on 2022-04-13 05:47:38
by
Donna
Posted in
NHVR
Issue 137 | 13 April 2022This Easter is anticipated to be one of the busiest periods on our roads, with some predictingpre-pandemic traffic levels.Road safety is critical for everyone travelling during the Easter holiday period.We have released a series of Easter safety videos, with operators sharing their tips for caravanners and light vehicle drivers on how to drive safely with heavy vehicles. I encourage you to share these videos with your friends and family, so we can ensure everyone has a safe and efficient Easter.To industry, make sure you check in with one another and get quality rest. For those taking a break, enjoy time spent with family and friends.I wish you all a safe and happy Easter.Sal, CEOEaster travel restrictionsSome states and territories may have travel restrictions in place over the Easter holiday period for agricultural, oversize/overmass and special purpose heavy vehicles.For vehicles operating under a permit, operators should check the permit’s conditions to establish whether Easter or public holiday travel restrictions are listed or are referenced in related notices.All heavy vehicles are subject to conditions of access under their relevant notice or permit.> Click here for more information about access over the Easter holiday periodCompanies receive Improvement Notices to rectify fatigue breachesTwo companies have recently been issued with Improvement Notices by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).An NHVR investigation identified multiple work diary, work hours and fatigue issues, and both companies failed to provide adequate fatigue compliance training and appropriate scheduling for their employees. Under the Improvement Notices, both companies must take corrective action and deliver activities including formal training, weekly and fortnightly audits, revised scheduling, Driver Safe Journey Plans, and non-conformance policies, to prevent further breaches. NHVR Director of Investigations Steve Underwood said immediate action must be taken by both companies after they put their drivers and the wider community at risk.“An improvement notice enables the offenders to improve their safety and compliance systems quickly, with the NHVR monitoring the required notice activities to remedy the situation,” Steve said.> Read the improvement notices article hereJoin the thousands of operators reaping NHVAS safety and productivity benefitsMore than 8,100 operators across Australia are enjoying the multiple benefits the National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (NHVAS) has to offer.Chief Operations Officer Paul Salvati said scheme membership provided a competitive edge, productivity gains and significant safety benefits.“Whether you’re a business or a single-vehicle owner-operator, you can use the NHVAS as your pathway to safer transport activities, regardless of the business sector you’re operating in,” Paul said.“If you’re a subcontractor with NHVAS membership, companies know they’re engaging someone with an auditable safety management system that makes their operations safer, and that you’re serious about meeting your primary duty requirements.“You can also get productivity benefits from being NHVAS Mass Management accredited, as it allows you to operate at Concessional Mass Limits for general access to the road network, meaning you can carry more each trip and reduce the number of trips you make.Maintenance Management record-keeping gives operators a clear picture of possible vehicle replacement needs. Their investment into newer, safer vehicles reduces vehicle downtime, with more time spent on the road and less over inspection pits, while getting accredited in Basic or Advanced Fatigue Management lets you operate under more flexible work and rest hours.Also, recent changes to the scheme see even more safety management system activities included.“Once you have NHVAS accreditation, it’s easy to build on it by using the NHVR’s 9 Step SMS Roadmap to make your safety management system even more comprehensive,” Paul said.For more information about joining the NHVAS, visit nhvr.gov.au/nhvasOzHelp partner with Coles Supply Chain to deliver their Health in Gear programLeading suicide prevention organisation, the OzHelp Foundation (OzHelp), has announced that its industry tailored Health in Gear program will be delivered to inbound drivers at Coles Distribution Centres.The partnership will cover 10 Coles distribution centres nationally and focuses on supporting the health and wellbeing of primary freight truck drivers, by delivering health checks and wellbeing support.OzHelp’s pilot Health in Gear program was co-funded by the NHVR’s Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative supported by the Federal Government, with contributions from OzHelp and industry partners.> Click here to read more about the Coles partnershipTransferring a Performance Based Standards vehicleIf you have purchased a second-hand Performance Based Standards (PBS) combination and would like to transfer the PBS Vehicle Approval (VA) into your company’s name, please follow these steps: 1. Fill out a PBS Vehicle Approval (VA) transfer application form.2. Provide proof of vehicle ownership of all vehicles being transferred such as certificates of registration or purchasing invoices. The proof of vehicle ownership must include the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the company name.3. Email the completed form along with proof of vehicle ownership to the PBS email box pbs@nhvr.gov.au with ‘VA Transfer Request’ in the email subject line.It’s important to note PBS vehicles are approved as a combination.Individual vehicles forming part of a combination cannot be transferred individually. For example, a truck and dog transfer application must contain at least one truck VIN and one dog trailer VIN, and both VINs must be listed on the original VA.Got questions? Email us info@nhvr.gov.au with ‘Attn PBS’ in the email subject line.Routing made easier with new mapping toolOperators now have access to easier and more accurate route planning with the release of the NHVR’s next generation route planner.Program Director David Carlisle said the improved mapping tool was the next step towards the NHVR delivering a nationally consistent, intelligent route planning platform for the heavy vehicle industry.“The new route planner incorporates design specifically for heavy vehicle travel, which will help operators plot more accurate heavy vehicle routes, minimise routing errors and reduce the time it takes to plan a journey,” David said.“Road data can be updated on the map in near real time, meaning operators won’t need to rely on notes, modifications or drawings to their permit applications.“And the downloadable routing feature captures historic routing information for operators to use in their own spatial systems and view all approved routes on a single map.“We know accurate and consistent route planning is essential for safe and productive operations, so this is great step towards making this process easier for industry.“We’ll continue to work with operators, road managers and jurisdictions to make further improvements over the next twelve months, moving towards a single national network map that supports dynamic heavy vehicle networks.”The Next Generation Route Planner is available now in the NHVR Portal.> Click here to learn more about the new route plannerNSW floodsFlooding in Sydney and surrounding areas will see some heavy vehicles driving on weather impacted roads that could pose a significant risk to drivers, vehicles, and other road users. Read the post flooding safety check list for a guide on routine maintenance to reduce the impacts of operating in wet conditions. Send in your truck shotDrivers are sharing their best truck shots with us over on the NHVR’s Facebook page for their chance for their photo to be featured.Do you have a truck shot to submit? Follow the Facebook page for regular calls for submissions. Photo credit: Rhianna HConsider a career with the NHVRWe value staff with a genuine belief in the work they do and the benefit it will bring.www.nhvr.gov.au/careersConnect with us on social media Having troubles viewing this email? Please click here to view online.Get in touch13 NHVR (13 64 87)www.nhvr.gov.au Enjoying On The Road?Forward this email to share with a friend or click here to subscribe another address.
ON THE ROAD Issue 135
on 2022-03-30 23:12:22
by
Donna
Posted in
NHVR
Issue 135 | 17 March 2022It’s deeply saddening to see the impact the recent rain and flash-flooding has had on northern New South Wales and areas closer to Sydney and surrounds. Please continue to check in with loved ones and stay safe.Please also be aware of the safety of your heavy vehicle. Below you'll find some useful tips for assessing the safety of your heavy vehicle after driving through water, mud, debris or along roads being used as a diversion.In a significant win for road safety, the Commonwealth have announced Automated Emergency Braking and Electronic Stability Control will be required for all new heavy vehicles from November 2023. The uptake of this technology has significant safety benefits, such as preventing rear-end crashes and rollovers, and was a key goal outlined in the National Road Safety Action Plan 2018-2020.We will continue to work with the Commonwealth, state and territory transport agencies, and industry to maximise the benefits of the mandated technology to progress a safe, productive, and efficient heavy vehicle industry.Sal, CEOA daily check for post flood vehiclesOperating a heavy vehicle during extreme weather conditions, such as those recently experienced in South Australia, Queensland and NSW, can have mechanical impacts.It’s important to adjust your vehicle’s maintenance system to match. The NHVR has released a list of tips and hints to use when assessing the safety of your heavy vehicle after driving through water, mud, debris or along roads being used as a diversion.The list covers checking for leaks, brakes, the rapid component cooling and electrical systems. Click here for the full list.These tips are general, and the NHVR also recommends you contact the vehicle or component manufacturer or your regular maintenance provider after using roads impacted by flooding.And remember, if it’s flooded, forget it.Faulty truck fatality: Charges laid against SA cement company and executiveCharges have been laid against a cement company and its executives following an eight-month investigation led by South Australia Police, where a heavy vehicle driver was killed in Piccadilly on 12 October 2020.It is alleged that the South Australian company, its owner/Managing Director, and another manager knew the heavy vehicle was defective but allowed it to be used on the road. They have been charged with Category 1, 2 and 3 offences under the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL).“Companies and executives must ensure the safety of their transport activities. If they ignore their responsibilities under the HVNL, they will be held to account,” NHVR Director of Prosecutions Belinda Hughes said.> Click here to read about the chargeCharges against company and directorThe NHVR has filed charges against a transport company and its Director/Administration Manager.South Australia Police commenced an investigation following a fatal crash involving a car and a road train, killing a woman, on the Augusta Highway near Red Hill on 27 December 2020.Based on the investigation by the South Australia Police Heavy Vehicle Enforcement Unit, category 2 charges have been laid under the Heavy Vehicle National Law.NHVR Director of Prosecutions Belinda Hughes said, “Companies and their executives must comply with their obligations to ensure the safety of their drivers, vehicles and transport activities.”The matter is listed for a first mention in the Adelaide Magistrates’ Court on 22 April 2022.Do I need a permit? guidesWe have released two new pages on the NHVR website that address the commonly asked question: “Do I need a permit?”General Access Vehicle (GAV), andDo I need a permitThe new General Access Vehicle page provides improved guidance on the types of eligible vehicles and combinations that qualify as GAVs. A GAV doesn’t require a permit or notice to operate on the road network.After confirming their vehicle is a Restricted Access Vehicle (RAV) – rather than General Access – RAV operators are stepped through:how to find out whether there’s an applicable access notice that covers their routeroute planning, to check which road networks have approved routes and which require a permit, andif there isn’t a notice, the type of permit applicable to their vehicle class.Join us in celebrating Harmony DayThe NHVR is proud to support the upcoming Harmony Day event on Sunday 20 March from 11am-4pm at the Liverpool Catholic Club (Green Oval) in Prestons.The inaugural event, hosted by truck drivers Amar Singh and Mike Williams, will promote multiculturalism, with information stalls, food and entertainment. This year’s theme Everyone Belongs recognises the need to embrace harmony among the trucking industry, and wider community.The NHVR and Transport for New South Wales will be available to have a chat and answer any heavy vehicle safety and compliance questions.For more information, contact Amar on turbans4australia@gmail.com and Mike on mike@ontheroadpodcast.com.auSend us your #truckshotDo you have photos of your truck you want to share with the industry? To be featured, send us a message on our Facebook page. Make sure you’re following the page to see other #truckshot photos shared too.Photo supplied by Nathan B. Consider a career with the NHVRWe value staff with a genuine belief in the work they do and the benefit it will bring.www.nhvr.gov.au/careersConnect with us on social media Having troubles viewing this email? Please click here to view online.
ON THE ROAD Issue 136
on 2022-03-30 23:10:42
by
Donna
Posted in
NHVR
Issue 136 | 29 March 2022The Easter school holiday period is fast approaching, and it’s an important time to think about road safety for everyone travelling on our roads.I urge everyone to chat to their mates about how they can make our roads safer for heavy vehicle drivers.If you have a mate who is taking their caravan on the road this Easter, remind them and encourage them to talk to their other mates about the importance of leaving space at rest stops for heavy vehicle drivers who rely on these spots to manage their fatigue.Or if you have a mate who’s an L or P plater, or a light vehicle driver – point them to our Don’t #uck With A Truck or We Need Space campaigns. Explain to them the importance of leaving space for heavy vehicles to turn or brake, and why patience is critical when overtaking.The more your mates understand about heavy vehicle safety, the safer our roads will be this Easter.Keep an eye on our social media channels for more videos and information over the Easter break.Have a safe and happy Easter, wherever you’re travelling.Sal, CEOBustle EWD seventh to get NHVR green lightThe National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has approved a seventh Electronic Work Diary (EWD) option, with Bustle Technology’s EWD now available.NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said operators are starting to reap the benefits of EWDs – and not just through better fatigue management and driver safety, but also though productivity gains.“For example, Bustle’s EWD complements its existing end-to-end Transport Management System solution, which includes compliance, workshop, operations and finance modules,” Sal said.“By wrapping as many solutions as possible into their software and aligning it with the Industry Master Code of Practice, Bustle is enabling transport operators to run compliant operations with fewer systems.> Click here to read the full Bustle EWD articleRegulatory Advice addresses the risks of alcohol and drug impairmentThe NHVR has released new regulatory advice on managing the risks associated with alcohol and other drug use in the workplace.This latest regulatory advice is aimed at both heavy vehicle operators and other parties in the Chain of Responsibility (CoR) and their executives.An employee’s fitness for duty is fundamental to safety and is a critical factor in a heavy vehicle business’s duty to ensure the safety of its transport activities.In addition to the obvious safety hazards to drivers, workers, other road users and the general public, workers impaired by alcohol or drugs (including prescribed prescription medications) can also impact a business’s ability to meet its lawful HVNL and workplace health and safety obligations.This new guidance from the NHVR explains who has a lawful duty to manage these risks and offers proactive suggestions for heavy vehicle businesses wanting to get ahead of the issue and develop an alcohol and drug impairment risk management plan.Read the new regulatory advice here.More regulatory advice will be released in the coming weeks and industry is encouraged to provide feedback via the NHVR website.South-West Victoria Livestock Exchange effluent disposal pit underwayThe Australian Livestock and Rural Transporters Association (ALRTA) is partnering with Warrnambool City Council to establish a livestock effluent disposal pit at Warrnambool’s South-West Victoria Livestock Exchange (SWVLX).ALRTA President Scott McDonald said managing effluent in transit was a significant challenge for ALRTA’s members.“Effluent capture tanks installed on purpose-built livestock trailers do a reasonable job of containment however there is a consequential need for transporters to access suitable facilities for effluent disposal when tanks become full in transit and at ‘end of journey’ facilities,” Scott said.The project is funded by the NHVR’s Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative, supported by the Federal Government.> Click here to read more about the siteRegister now for your free Fatigue Choices consultationThe next round of our popular Fatigue Choices program is now open to operators who wish to learn more about flexible fatigue management options for their business.The program includes free, one-on-one consultations where operators can discuss their fatigue management options with a member of the NHVR’s Fatigue and Human Factors team.NHVR Fatigue Specialist Andreas Blahous said the program would help operators ensure their business was making the most of existing fatigue laws.“With revised Fatigue Management Standards now in place, it’s a perfect opportunity for operators to consider Advanced Fatigue Management to achieve greater flexibility with work and rest hours,” Andreas said.“Applying for AFM doesn’t have to be a difficult process, but it does require a commitment by the business and staff to some additional safety measures.“Our Fatigue Choices sessions are conducted online, take less than an hour, and there’s nothing operators need to do to prepare.”Sessions will be available until the end of April and book out quickly, so please register your interest here.Grape expectations this harvest seasonThe NHVR is reminding operators of heavy vehicles transporting grapes to pay attention to their mass, loading, fatigue and work and rest hour requirements under the Heavy Vehicle National Law.The reminder comes after grape spillage was found at major intersections and heavy vehicles transporting grapes inspected by NHVR’s Safety and Compliance Officers were found to be non-compliant.Find out more about having a safe and fruitful grape seasonAlways load to legalOperators must also remember the nationally agreed mass measurement adjustment process only applies when an authorised officer weighs a heavy vehicle for compliance purposes.Mass measurement adjustment makes it fairer when your vehicle’s being weighed, as different weighing equipment, measuring methods, inspection sites and surrounding conditions may impact slightly on the measurement outcomes.Mass measurement adjustment isn’t a tolerance – and it doesn’t mean you can allow yourself that little bit extra when you’re calculating the mass of your load. If you do, you’ll be over your mass limit, and that’s an offence!For more information, visit the NHVR’s Measurement adjustment webpageIndustry eventsStay up to date with industry events and forums. Visit our Events page for more details on what’s coming up.Consider a career with the NHVRWe value staff with a genuine belief in the work they do and the benefit it will bring.www.nhvr.gov.au/careersConnect with us on social media Having troubles viewing this email? Please click here to view online.