NHVR (38)
ON THE ROAD Issue 106
on 2021-02-17 00:00:07
by
IT Dept
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NHVR
Issue 106 | 9 February 2021Everyone in the supply chain has a responsibility to fulfil their respective duties and make our roads safer for everyone.Whether that’s ensuring loads are properly restrained, vehicles are up to standard or drivers are properly rested—everyone has a part to play.The NHVR is here to help you understand your responsibilities. Get in touch with one of our staff on the phone, online, at the roadside or at one of our Truck Driver Info Days.Don’t wait until something goes wrong to take action.Sal PetroccittoCEONHVR enters Sunshine Coast transport company premisesThe National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) and Queensland Police Service (QPS) last week entered the premises of a Sunshine Coast based transport company to investigate the company’s compliance with the Heavy Vehicle National Law.NHVR and QPS identified evidence of engine remapping, which meant emissions controls and speed limiting systems were not operating in accordance with the Australian Design Rules.Defect notices were issued for the relevant vehicles and a direction has been given to the operator to remedy the issues while investigations are ongoing.> Read moreResearch review sparks truck driver health programTo coincide with the upcoming launch of their new truck driver health program, the OzHelp Foundation (OzHelp) has published a review which draws on national and international research findings into the poor health outcomes of heavy vehicle drivers.OzHelp has been funded through the NHVR’s Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI), supported by the Federal Government, to develop a health and wellbeing program for owner driver truck drivers.The program ‘Health in Gear’ will shortly commence its pilot phase and is informed by the findings of the review.> Read more (PDF)NHVR files primary duties charges against South Australia companyPrimary duties offences have been laid against a South Australian manufacturing company and its executive following an incident in February 2019.The company has been charged with category 1, 2 and 3 offences under the Heavy Vehicle National Law while the executive has been charged with failure comply with a duty.The charges stem from the incorrect restraint of a load on a trailer by someone who had not been adequately trained in load restraint nor had any relevant experience restraining loads on heavy vehicles.> Read the full storyWarning over use of ‘suzi coils’The NHVR has released a safety bulletin to highlight the dangers of inappropriately using suzi coils for air supply to the brake system on self-supporting trailers (A-type) trailers.The NHVR is aware of a number of decoupling incidents where suzi coils have been used as air supply lines to trailers with ‘A’ type coupling systems.In some extreme cases, the combination of the design of the trailer, and the use of suzi coils has resulted in these trailers drifting into other lanes with a total lack of emergency brake application due to the extent the suzi coils have stretched.To ensure trailers that have unintentionally disconnected can stop within the shortest possible distance, the NHVR strongly recommends that trailers, other than semitrailers, are not fitted with suzi coils and instead use traditional rubber hoses.> Read the safety bulletin (PDF)Minor changes to vehicle safety standard requirementsTo ensure that the Heavy Vehicle National Law (the Law), and the Heavy Vehicle (Vehicle Standards) National Regulation (the Regulation) are kept current, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) regularly undertakes reviews and makes changes when needed.Following a recent review, some minor changes will be made to vehicle safety standards requirements, commencing 22 February 2021.Changes will be made to the technical requirements of the vehicle safety standards, set out in the Regulation, including:indirect vision devicesblind spot information systemstyres with cleats and other gripping devicesclasses of retroreflective materials> Read more at our websiteLast chance for HVSI Round 6A reminder that applications for Round 6 of the $5.55 million Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI) will close on 12 February 2021.If you have a project, program or campaign that will increase safety awareness and compliance that requires funding or support to make it happen, we want to hear from you.The funding for 2021-22 is a record for the program and we’re calling on groups to put forward their value-for-money projects and ideas for consideration.Projects must be implementable, commence in the 2021-22 financial year and be completed by 30 June 2024.For more information or to view the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative 2021-22 Submission Guidelines, visit www.nhvr.gov.au/hvsiPBS Directional Stability Under Braking Standard consultation closingConsultation on the implementation of amendments to the PBS Directional Stability Under Braking (DSUB) Standard will close on 12 February 2021.For additional information or to provide feedback, please review the PBS Directional Stability Under Braking Transitional Arrangements Discussion Paper at www.nhvr.gov.au/consultation.Truck Driver Information DaysCome and chat to the NHVR at our next roadside information days. Whether you have a questions about access, Chain of Responsibility or any other heavy vehicle queries, Stakeholder Engagement Officer Peta Smart can assist.Have you got another question about coronavirus changes?A lot may have changed across the heavy vehicle industry over the past months, but safety still comes first.Check out the latest advice for heavy vehicle operators at www.nhvr.gov.au/coronavirusConnect with us on social media Having troubles viewing this email? Please click here to view online.Get in touch1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487)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 105
on 2021-01-27 23:52:03
by
IT Dept
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NHVR
Issue 105 | 27 January 2021The NHVR is focused on changing the high-risk perception around newer, safer, higher productivity vehicles and providing them with guaranteed access.This year, we will be pursuing improvements to the PBS scheme that will streamline the approval processes, move mature designs to the prescriptive fleet and provide greater flexibility and fleet utilisation.We’re also making sure these vehicles are fitted with the latest safety technologies, and that PBS vehicles continue to deliver safer roads and safer journeys. Moving our current thinking from the current prescriptive law to innovative, forward-thinking solutions is critical to meeting our future freight task.We have some very real opportunities to make significant improvements to safety and productivity if we embrace them the right way.SalHVSI Round 6 closing soonA reminder that applications for Round 6 of the $5.55 million Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI) will close on 12 February 2021.If you have a project, program or campaign that will increase safety awareness and compliance that requires funding or support to make it happen, we want to hear from you.The funding for 2021-22 is a record for the program and we’re calling on groups to put forward their value-for-money projects and ideas for consideration.Projects must be implementable, commence in the 2021-22 financial year and be completed by 30 June 2024.For more information or to view the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative 2021-22 Submission Guidelines, visit www.nhvr.gov.au/hvsiPBS Directional Stability Under Braking Standard open for consultationThe NHVR has opened consultation on the implementation of amendments to the PBS Directional Stability Under Braking (DSUB) Standard.Feedback on the paper is open until 12 February 2021.> Read the full storyFee change for Victorian heavy vehicle escort servicesThe NHVR provides services for heavy vehicles operating under a pilot or escort requirement in Victoria.On 1 February 2021, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator – Fee for Victorian Services Notice 2021 (No. 1) will commence. Fees for services specified under the notice will increase to $232 per hour (including GST), with a minimum of two hours for weekdays and three hours for weekends and public holidays.This is the first increase since the NHVR took over Victorian pilot and escort responsibilities in December 2019.Visit the NHVR’s Fee Schedule for more information.TruckSpot to provide a snapshot of Victoria’s Roads from a truck driver’s perspectiveTruck drivers and operators in Gippsland and the Green Triangle area of Western Victoria and South East South Australia will be among the first regions in the country to be part of a new way to gather critical road safety data. Through support from the Commonwealth Government’s Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI), administered by the NHVR, and developed in partnership with Safe Freight Networks Australia and CrowdSpot the innovative “TruckSpot” project will provide an opportunity to identify both positive and negative features of the road network by allowing drivers to drop a “spot” directly onto a map.To be a part of the project head to https://truckspot.crowdspot.com.au. Last chance to provide feedback on the revised Inspection ManualThe NHVR is undertaking a five-yearly review of the National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual (NHVIM) and is seeking input on the revised draft – NHVIM 3.0 Feedback can be submitted until Friday 29 January 2021.> Click here for the draft NHVIM 3.0 and feedback formThe NHVR is also seeking feedback on the revised draft VSB6 Section T – Tow Trucks, which has been updated to align with current design and construction techniques. Feedback can be submitted until Friday 29 January 2021.> Click here for the draft VSB6 Section T – Tow Trucks and feedback formReminder to provide permits to pilots and escortsHeavy vehicle operators are reminded of their obligations to provide a copy of their permit to any pilot or escort vehicle driver accompanying them.The NHVR recommends providing copies of NHVR permits or notices – and any other relevant information.For more information, see https://www.nhvr.gov.au/files/202101-1210-info-sheet-providing-permit-copies-to-pilot-and-escort-vehicle-drivers.pdfHave you got another question about coronavirus changes?A lot may have changed across the heavy vehicle industry over the past months, but safety still comes first.Check out the latest advice for heavy vehicle operators at www.nhvr.gov.au/coronavirusConnect with us on social media Having troubles viewing this email? Please click here to view online.Get in touch1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487)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 104
on 2021-01-14 08:44:57
by
IT Dept
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NHVR
Issue 104 | 12 January 2021Welcome to 2021It’s certainly a time for optimism, and a chance to move forward from the challenges many across the heavy vehicle industry endured last year.I want to again acknowledge and praise drivers and operators for the strength and resilience shown when servicing our local communities throughout the pandemic.If the last year has taught us anything, it’s that we as the regulator, and governments, need to ensure we create a culture that embraces change and will prioritise initiatives that deliver the greatest benefits.This will be an important year to progress reform of heavy vehicle regulation. It’s critical that we get the new Heavy Vehicle National Law right so we can continue to adapt and evolve to the needs of our ever-changing industry.This means ensuring the law is principles-based and enabling the regulator to regulate by moving increased requirements to approved standards and codes of practice.We look forward to working with our industry and government partners to pursue more modern and innovative outcomes for our industry in 2021.SalNew EWD approvalsThe NHVR has approved two additional EWDs for use as an alternative to a written work diary.The NHVR approved Netstar’s Garmin Fleet 7XX Series for use from January 11. Click here for the full statement.MTData's Talon and Swift system, running on either a Samsung Galaxy Active Tab or Samsung Galaxy Active Tab 2 will be available for use from January 18. Click here for the full statement.They join the Step Global and Teletrac Navman systems, which have been available across Australia since December last year.Any issues with EWDs can be reported to the NHVR by phone or through the website at www.nhvr.gov.au/contact-usTo stay up to date with approved EWDs and their conditions of use visit www.nhvr.gov.au/ewdSupport for better driving healthThe NHVR is supporting the Queensland Trucking Association’s Driving Better Health program, which launched recently.The project is taking health assessments to drivers through the Heart of Australia trucks, making it more accessible for operators to take part.The program kicked off at the annual Frasers Livestock Transport ‘Yarn at the Yard’ in Warwick with free health assessments that normally cost $165 per person, fully funded by the NHVR’s Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative, supported by the Federal Government.Click here for more information on upcoming Driver Better Health sessions. If you have a heavy vehicle safety program or idea check out www.nhvr.gov.au/hvsi.Applications for Round 6 funding close on 12 February 2021.New mental and physical wellbeing resources from Injury MattersWestern Australia-based organisation Injury Matters has officially launched the Mental and Physical Safety on our Roads (MaPS on our Roads) with support from the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).This program aims to support heavy vehicle operators maintain mental and physical wellbeing at work.The first MaPS on our Roads campaign, Your MaP to Recovery: After a Road Crash, focuses on the importance of staying mentally and physically well on the road, looking after yourself and others after a road crash, and the support available to help.Project resources and information are available at www.injurymatters.org.au/mapsonourroadsStay up to date with freight border crossing changesThe NHVR is continuing to coordinate information from state and federal authorities for essential travellers, including anyone moving freight.As border crossings change, stay up to date with the latest information about the ongoing requirements and heavy vehicle-friendly testing sites.Click here for more informationSend us your #TruckShotsWant to see your truck featured on the NHVR social pages? Whether it’s sunset, desert, flooded or just unusual, we want to see your best truck shots on the road.Click here to see some of the best shots of 2020As we begin the journey of 2021, don’t forget to send through your best #TruckShots to us on Facebook. We can't wait to see where this year takes you!Have you got another question about coronavirus changes?A lot may have changed across the heavy vehicle industry over the past months, but safety still comes first.Check out the latest advice for heavy vehicle operators at www.nhvr.gov.au/coronavirusConnect with us on social media Having troubles viewing this email? Please click here to view online.Get in touch1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487)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 103
on 2020-12-22 04:23:29
by
IT Dept
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NHVR
Issue 103 | 21 December 2020COVID-19 special updateStay up to date with freight border crossing changesMost states have introduced restrictions on travel related to the outbreak in the Greater Sydney Region, Central Coast and Wollongong Local Government areas.Freight movements are largely classified as essential, though drivers may need to carry border passes or adhere to certain conditions when leaving NSW.The NHVR is continuing to coordinate information from state and federal authorities for essential travellers, including anyone moving freight.> Click here for the latest informationUpdates will also be shared on our Facebook and Twitter.Stay up to date with the latest information for each state or territory at:Australian Capital Territory (ACT)Northern TerritoryQueenslandSouth AustraliaTasmaniaVictoriaWestern AustraliaHave you got another question about coronavirus changes?A lot may have changed across the heavy vehicle industry over the past months, but safety still comes first.Check out the latest advice for heavy vehicle operators at www.nhvr.gov.au/coronavirusConnect with us on social media Having troubles viewing this email? Please click here to view online.Get in touch1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487)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 102
on 2020-12-15 05:39:05
by
IT Dept
Posted in
NHVR
Issue 102 | 15 December 2020 Photo credit: Shaun SmouseMessage from the CEOI’d like to use this opportunity to recognise and thank everyone across the heavy vehicle industry and wider heavy vehicle supply chain for the strength and resilience you have shown this year.I hope those of you who are able to take a break over the Christmas and New Year period have an opportunity to reflect on the enormous benefit you’ve delivered right across Australia, both during the bushfires and pandemic.Many of you have been at the frontline and your support in servicing our local communities in extremely difficult times has been unwavering. Take the time to check in with your loved ones and with yourself in what has been a challenging year for all.For those who are continuing to work during the coming weeks, please take the time to ensure that your safety systems are in place to tackle the risks associated with distraction and fatigue.Have a safe and happy Christmas and New Year period and I look forward to seeing you in 2021.SalEngineering assessments improve operator route planningThe NHVR’s Strategic Local Government Asset Assessment Project (SLGAAP) is supporting better route planning on strategic freight routes Australia-wide.The initial Pilot Phase finished in mid-October, with 100 bridges and culverts assessed across 12 local government areas nationally. Engineering reports for the assets provided access information for more than 100 vehicle configurations, including Oversize Overmass vehicles, B-Doubles and Road Trains.> Click here to read more about the projectHave your say on the revised Inspection ManualThe NHVR is undertaking a five-yearly review of the National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual (NHVIM) and is seeking input on the revised draft – NHVIM 3.0.Consultation began on 7 December and feedback can be submitted until 29 January 2021 via the NHVIM feedback form.> Click here for draft NHVIM 3.0 and feedback formThe NHVR is also seeking feedback on the revised draft VSB6 Section T – Tow Trucks, which has been updated to align with current design and construction techniques.Consultation began on 7 December and feedback can be submitted until 29 January 2021 via the VSB6 feedback form.> Click here for draft VSB6 Section T – Tow Trucks and feedback formChristmas/New Year travel restrictionsRoad managers have advised the NHVR of some disruption to services for certain Class 1 heavy vehicles over the Christmas and New Year period.For vehicles operating under a permit, operators should check the permit conditions to establish whether Christmas 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 the latest information about holiday accessNHVR fee changes for 2021NHVR access fees will increase by $1 from January 11, following a six month freeze on fee changes.Fees will also increase for National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme modules for the first time since October 2018.The NHVR delayed the changes by six months to assist businesses managing the ongoing changes due to the coronavirus pandemic.> Click here for the new fee scheduleNHVR office hoursThe NHVR offices will be closed from Friday 25 December 2020 and will re-open on Monday 4 January 2021.The NHVR call centre will be closed on Public Holidays only and open on all other business days from 8am–6pm (AEDT).Please be aware that other road managers, such as local governments, may have limited or no services available during this period.> Click here for more information on Christmas office hoursStay up to date with freight border crossing changesThe NHVR is continuing to coordinate information from state and federal authorities for essential travellers, including anyone moving freight.As borders re-open, stay up to date with the latest information about the ongoing requirements and heavy vehicle-friendly testing sites.> Click here for more information about COVID accessGet in touch1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487)www.nhvr.gov.auConnect with us on social media