Issue 83 | 9 April 2020

Message from the CEO

I’d like to wish everyone across the heavy vehicle industry a safe and happy Easter, and thank them for their efforts and resilience over the past few weeks. As I reflect on the past fortnight it is obvious that some supply chains are stretched with the additional freight requirements, while many others are experiencing a downturn. At the NHVR we are seeing a lot of new customers applying for access permits to operate on different networks, to support the demand. It’s also reflected in the number of questions we’ve received over the phone, on line and through social media. As this transition continues I urge you to continue to engage with the NHVR to ensure you are meeting your legal and safety requirements. A lot may have changed recently, but heavy vehicle safety is still paramount, particularly over the Easter long weekend. Sal

Map to support drivers to manage fatigue

The NHVR has today launched a new online tool that maps service centres, truck stops and roadhouses that remain open for heavy vehicle drivers. NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said that the tool provided information about services and trading hours for service centres right across the country.  “Having access to food, showers, toilets and appropriate rest is critical for drivers to properly manage their fatigue,” Mr Petroccitto said.  “This new mapping tool will allow drivers to jump online and see quickly which facilities are still operational and providing these important services, allowing them to plan routes and breaks. Read more about the truck stop tool

Easter travel changes

Over the Easter holiday period, a number of road transport agencies have relaxed Easter travel restrictions for agricultural, Oversize and Over mass, and special purpose heavy vehicles due to COVID-19. However there are slight variations for each state and territory. Click here for the latest information on current Easter travel requirements. Please note, heavy vehicle access arrangements may change at short notice and we strongly recommend operators check this page or with the relevant state and territory road transport authorities prior to travel.

Heavy vehicle safety in focus

Heavy vehicle operators are being urged to ensure their operations remain safe as unprecedented demand puts pressure on freight supply chains. NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto reminded operators of their Chain of Responsibility obligations and to avoid putting drivers under undue pressure. “We’re concerned by reports that drivers are under increased pressure to meet deadlines,” Sal said. Click here for the full statement with NHVR, Transport for NSW and police agencies

Have your say on freight productivity and livestock supply chain

Submissions for two key heavy vehicle industry policy documents closer later this month. Feedback on the Draft Heavy Vehicle Productivity Plan 2020–2025, which outlines a national agenda for improving heavy vehicle access and productivity, closes on Friday, April 17. Feedback on the Livestock Supply Chain Review Issues Paper, Improving awareness and practices in the livestock supply chain, closes on Friday, April 24. For more information on both papers or to lodge a submission visit www.nhvr.gov.au/about-us/consultation

Stay safe this Easter with the Daily Checklist

The NHVR’s Daily Checklist has been relaunched to assist drivers with their vehicle inspections ahead of the Easter long weekend. The latest version of the Daily Checklist was updated following industry feedback to include checking engine and drivetrain warnings and checking all couplings and connectors are correctly attached. A daily check is a quick visual inspection that can be undertaken on a heavy vehicle prior to leaving the yard, depot or rest area. Click here for the Daily Checklist Additional items and areas to check can be obtained from the National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual which contains a full list of components and their inspection criteria.