Message from the CEO

One of the key outcomes of the current review into the Heavy Vehicle National Law must be a renewed fatigue regime.

We are well aware of the issues presented by the current law. It is overly prescriptive and doesn’t provide the flexibility operators require to deliver the best safety and productivity outcomes.

Our recent study has shown that AFM is proving effective – both at delivering the flexibility operators need to better manage real fatigue risks and in keeping our roads safe for all users.

With the review of the HVNL now moving to its next phase, we are committed to working with industry and the NTC to use what we have learned from AFM to inform a modern fatigue management framework that delivers benefits for everyone.

Sal

AFM study supports move to flexible and risk-based approach to fatigue

An NHVR survey of close to 40 heavy vehicle operators using Advanced Fatigue Management (AFM) has found that those taking advantage of the flexibility offered by AFM had fewer fatigue-related incidents, an improved safety culture and higher productivity than other operators. 

NHVR Principal Safety Assurance Advisor Andreas Blahous said that the study followed calls for the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) to allow for increased flexibility when effective fatigue management systems are in place.

“The study demonstrates the significant benefits of AFM and a more flexible fatigue management framework for both safety and productivity,” Mr Blahous said. 

> Read more

Accreditation services set to join the NHVR Portal

National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme services will be available in the NHVR Portal from 2 December 2019.

Operators will be able to manage their NHVAS tasks including submitting an application, managing account information, reviewing application status, reviewing accreditation status, reviewing driver and vehicle lists, paying for applications, viewing payment history and tracking audit associated. 

From Friday 29 November, the NHVR Accreditation team will start transferring NHVAS applications received via email, fax or web forms to the NHVR Portal. 

> Read more

New permit scheme benefits Queensland crane industry

A new permit scheme for crane operations across Queensland is underway.

NHVR Program Director Annette Finch said the new Queensland Class 1 Crane Permit Scheme was the result of work undertaken by the NHVR, Local Government Association Queensland and the Crane Industry Council Australia.

“This scheme will increase productivity and reduce burden for the crane industry operating across Queensland,” Annette said.

“Previously crane operators in Queensland had to apply for individual radius permits, however under the new scheme operators can apply for the pre-approved network and be issued a singular permit for participating local council roads.”

> Read more

Jacobson urges drivers to Tell a mate about heavy vehicle safety

One of Australia’s best-known personalities, Shane Jacobson, is back on board with the NHVR’s Tell a mate heavy vehicle safety campaign.

NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto welcomed Jacobson’s passion for heavy vehicle safety, after being the face of the Tell a mate campaign over the past year.

“Initially Shane will be part of our Focus on Fatigue campaign in the lead-up to Christmas, urging drivers to chat to their colleagues and other road users about recognising the signs of fatigue,” Mr Petroccitto said.

“Shane has a real interest in heavy vehicle safety and it’s exciting to be able to continue this partnership. 

> Read more

Productivity Commission Draft Report backs improved safety outcomes

The NHVR has welcomed the release of the Productivity Commission’s Draft Report into National Transport Regulatory Reform.

NHVR Chair Duncan Gay said that the draft report highlighted the benefits that had already been achieved, while charting a path for improvement.

“We welcome the draft report and will continue to work with the Productivity Commission as they finalise their inquiry over the coming months,” Mr Gay said.

“The draft report reinforces the key safety and productivity benefits that have already been enabled through the work of industry and the NHVR.

> Read more

Kamili gets OSOM access

Three of the 60,000 access permits processed through the NHVR this year were for giraffes.

The latest was Kamili who last week completed the trip from Perth to Melbourne, transported by Melbourne-based operator L Arthur Transport Services.

The NHVR coordinated the oversize, overmass access arrangements in place to ensure Kamili’s safety on the 3400 km journey.

Kamili was born last year at Perth Zoo and is headed to Orana Wildlife Park in New Zealand, via the Port of Melbourne. 

NHVR Access Coordinator Annette Finch said the giraffe moved in a specially designed enclosure and travelling under a permit on a prime mover with a total height of almost five metres, via a route carefully planned to avoid low bridges, powerlines and other potential obstacles. 

> Read more