NHVR (38)
On The Road Issue 76, Feb 4th 2020
on 2020-02-04 10:35:07
by
IT Dept
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NHVR
Issue 76 | 4 February 2020 Message from the CEO - 2020 in clear sightThere has been interesting discussion recently around the impact that new technology is having on heavy vehicle safety and productivity.Whether you utilise fatigue detection, cleaner-energy vehicles or simply make use of the increasingly detailed data on offer across the industry, I believe improved technology is having an impact.I’m constantly amazed by the heavy vehicle industry’s ability to embrace new ideas and look for safer, more productive ways to undertake the freight task.Technology is largely driven by industry and manufacturers meeting operator needs.As a Regulator we’ll continue to encourage uptake and where possible provide incentives.In March the NHVR will be conducting a voluntary industry safety survey to provide a snapshot of what systems and procedures are being incorporated by heavy vehicle operators and the supply chain.Keep an eye out and I’d encourage you to be involved.SalHeavy vehicle industry reviews should align for better outcomeThe NHVR is calling for two major reviews to be considered together, avoiding duplication and delivering better safety and productivity outcomes for the industry. The call was made as part of the NHVR’s response to the Productivity Commission’s draft paper on National Transport Regulatory Reform.NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto's response called for the Productivity Commission’s findings to be included as part of the ongoing National Transport Commission (NTC) Review into the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL). “I believe that it is essential that the NTC, which is overseeing the HVNL Review, provide sufficient time to fully consider the commission’s recommendations before progressing with any proposed legislative amendments,” Mr Petroccitto said.> Read full articleJoin us in Dubbo to learn about flexible fatigue managementWould you like to learn more about the flexible fatigue management options currently available to you under the HVNL?Representatives from the NHVR’s Fatigue and Human Factors team will be in Dubbo to host an evening information session where operators can attend to hear about the options available and discuss the specific details of the fatigue flexibility they would like for their business and get direct input from the NHVR. Details of the session are:Date: Saturday 15 February 2020Time: 6.00-7.00pmVenue: Quality Inn Dubbo International, 165 Whylandra St, DubboThe team will also be available after the information session (between 7.00 pm and 9.00pm) to provide one-on-one advice and guidance. To arrange a 30 minute one-on-one session please contact fatiguemanagement@nhvr.gov.auBridge StrikesQueensland Rail is asking transport businesses and truck drivers to complete a survey that will help them better understand the industry's knowledge of vehicle load height.The information from the surveys will help shape initiatives aimed at reducing the number of rail bridge collisions.The surveys are anonymous, take about 10 minutes to complete, and close at 5pm on Friday 14 February 2020.Respondents who leave their email address will go in a draw to win one of five $100 gift cards.If you are a transport business owner, you should complete the following survey bit.ly/3aXzwckIf you are a driver, you should complete the following survey bit.ly/2GDAxIrNHVR officers lending hand to fire-impacted communitiesNHVR staff across Victoria and South Australia have been doing their part for the bushfire relief effort with officers assisting to get hay to isolated, bushfire-effected areas.Director Southern Region (Operations) Paul Simionato said that staff in Victoria and South Australia had stepped up to help out wherever they could.“The NHVR was approached by the Victoria Police to assist with road traffic management, escort activities and traffic control,” Mr Simionato said. "The team was deployed to Bairnsdale, a community that has been significantly impacted by the fires, to support heavy vehicle movements in the area. “In one of the biggest operations, NHVR staff and VicPol successfully escorted a 35 hay truck convoy from Bairnsdale to Gelantipy, over more than three hours. > Read full articleUpcoming Truck Driver Info Days – first for 2020A new year brings new opportunities to engage with the NHVR and one of the best ways to do this is through our regular Truck Driver Info Days. Upcoming dates include: NSW - Wednesday 5 February, BP Beresfield (near Newcastle), 2pm to lateVIC - Wednesday 19 February, BP Rockbank (west of Melbourne), 10am to 6pmIn 2019 the NHVR stakeholder team rolled out more than 30 information sessions in all participating states as part of its roadside information sessions or one of the many events the NHVR attended.This included four truck information sessions across four states on one day in September.John Gilbert, NHVR’s Manager of Stakeholder Engagement and Customer Experience said the national day of engagement was a success as it allowed operators to talk to the team in a more relaxed environment."Some of this engagement has already led to changes and better wording of policy documents the NHVR has produced," he said.> See all eventsEvents & WebinarsThe NHVR hosts many forums and online webinars throughout the year.Visit the events page on the website to keep up with the latest events or browse our YouTube channel for webinars and training tools.NHVR is now on InstagramFollow us on Instagram to keep up-to-date with NHVR projects and events.Connect with us and share your pictures from the road to be featured in our newsletter.Connect with us 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 75 | 21 January 2020
on 2020-01-21 06:07:36
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IT Dept
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NHVR
Issue 75 | 21 January 2020 Message from the CEOHappy New Year to On the Road readers.Despite the many exciting innovations and programs rolling out in 2020 for heavy vehicle safety and productivity, it’s hard to look past the tragic events that have recently unfolded in many parts of Australia.Thank you to the hundreds of heavy vehicle operators who have safely supported the emergency response and initial phases of the bushfire recovery.Their efforts have been supported by authorised officers from the NHVR, RMS, police and other agencies. NHVR staff have been out across eastern Victoria and South Australia over the past week escorting drivers.There have been convoys of fodder moving along narrow or damaged roads often under poor visibility and missing signage. Operators supporting the recovery are arriving from far and wide and need assistance navigating local roads for the first time.This will be a long recovery and the NHVR will be working with industry and recovery agencies to support where required.SalBody worn cameras to be rolled out to NHVR officersBody worn cameras (BWCs) have been issued to all NHVR Safety and Compliance Officers (SCOs) following a recent trial in South Australia and Tasmania.The BWC is a portable camera worn by NHVR officers to capture audio and video recordings of interactions between officers and those involved in heavy vehicle transport activities.It also provides a number of important safety benefits by encouraging safe and mutually respectful interactions.NHVR Chief Operations Officer Paul Salvati said that the cameras would be worn during intercepts and evidence gathering activities by all NHVR officers in South Australia, Victoria, the ACT and Tasmania.> Read full articleFemale truck drivers say enough is enough to road tollFed up with the number of preventable crashes on Australian roads, including 1,188 road fatalities in 2019, female truck drivers are speaking out in a new campaign which aims to reduce risky behaviour.NHVR Director Southern Region Paul Simionato said that Women in Trucking Australia Ltd (WiTA) – established by female heavy vehicle drivers to encourage and support more women into driving careers – was one of 24 organisations that received funding through the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI), supported by the Federal Government.“The HVSI supports groups across the country to deliver programs that deliver tangible improvements to safety in the heavy vehicle industry,” Paul said.“This new campaign is a powerful reminder that trucks need space to keep you safe and I commend WiTA on the work they are doing to make sure all road users get home safe.”> Read full articleNHVR Portal Bytes – accreditation and vehicle standards updateOperators can now manage their National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme services and Vehicle Standards applications through the NHVR Portal.NHVR Business Improvement Program Director David Carlisle said a recent upgrade was now available to more than 7000 accreditation customers.“Operators are now able to manage tasks including submitting an application, managing account information, reviewing application status, reviewing accreditation status, reviewing driver and vehicle lists, paying for applications and viewing payment history,” David said.“If you have not yet taken the step to submit an application via the NHVR Portal, make 2020 the time to do it.“The NHVR Portal is also a great way to track your applications and retain information for auditing.”For more information on the latest release visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=KczK9OhrNgQTo manage an Accreditation or Vehicle Standards account visit www.service.nhvr.gov.auTruck Driver Info Days kick off for 2020A new year brings new opportunities to engage with the NHVR and one of the best ways to do this is through our regular Truck Driver Info Days.Upcoming dates include:Wednesday 5 February, BP Beresfield (near Newcastle), 2pm until lateThursday 20 February, Caltex Port of Brisbane, 6am until 2pmIn 2019 the NHVR stakeholder team rolled out more than 30 information sessions as part of its roadside information program. This included four truck information sessions across four states on a single day in September.John Gilbert, NHVR’s Manager of Stakeholder Engagement and Customer Experience said the national day of engagement was a success as it allowed operators to talk to the team in a more relaxed environment."Some of this engagement has already led to changes and better wording of policy documents the NHVR has produced," he said.> Read more about the work of our Stakeholder Engagement team in this issue of Prime Mover MagazineStop and think about road safetyThe South Australian Government’s Think! Road Safety webpage is a great resource that is helping drivers, motorcyclists and pedestrians think about their behaviours and actions when on the road.The webpage features a wide range of resources and campaigns that remind all South Australians that road incidents can be avoided when everyone thinks about road safety.The new resource provides a central location for Think! branded road safety information and campaigns, which have been developed by SAPOL and DPTI.Visit Think! Road Safety here - thinkroadsafety.sa.gov.auGet in touch1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487)www.nhvr.gov.auBushfire Recovery BulletinsClick here for the latest informationConnect with us Having troubles viewing this email? Please click here to view online.
NHVR Bushfire Update 3 16 Jan 2020
on 2020-01-16 07:04:42
by
IT Dept
Posted in
NHVR
Bulletin 3: Released on 16 January 2020 Bushfires are continuing to impact heavy vehicle operations across Australia.The following Bulletin provides important information in relation to OSOM restrictions, fatigue provisions and the bushfire recovery.NHVR is urging all heavy vehicle operators to take steps to ensure safe travel when operating in and around areas affected by bushfires.Where possible operators should avoid travelling in bushfire impacted zones, however if required, be aware of local emergency access arrangements.Personal Use Exemption availableOperators should be aware of options when using a fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle for personal use, particularly in areas where there are no alternative means of transport.The Personal use exemption, allows an additional hour for private or non-commercial activities, such as reaching suitable sleeping accommodation and restocking supplies for a trip. The exemption applies if the truck is unladen or unhitched.Drivers using the exemption still have a responsibility to manage their own fatigue and stop driving if tired.The NHVR recently extended the exemption to include drivers operating under Basic and Advanced Fatigue Management, as well as under Standard hours.For more information on the Personal use exemption visit www.nhvr.gov.au/fatigue-personal-useUnderstand emergency fatigue provisions – what you can and can’t doAn emergency services work and rest hour exemption may apply if working with or under the direction of emergency services. This includes transporting relief supplies or working to restore essential utilities and services.For this exemption to apply, written or verbal direction must be received from emergency service personnel.While the direction may exempt you from complying with work and rest limits and maintaining work diaries, they do not exempt an operator or a driver from managing fatigue.Drivers should keep a record of any instruction given by emergency services.Drivers should stop work and rest immediately if they are feeling fatigued at any time while operating a heavy vehicle.The NHVR has been out across eastern Victoria over the past few days escorting drivers through fire affected areas, along narrow or damaged roads often under poor visibility and missing signage. Pictured is one of three loads of hay in a convoy for “Need for Feed” being escorted to properties between Bairnsdale and Orbost. The NHVR thanks operators for their assistance and care when accessing these areas.OSOM Restrictions lifted in Southern NSWTransport for NSW advises that the restrictions placed on OSOM travel in Southern NSW last week as a result of bushfires have now been lifted.The situation in this area is still unpredictable and conditions may change at short notice. Operators are requested to maintain a high level of caution when travelling in these areas.There are still a significant number of emergency service and Defence Force vehicles assisting with the recovery effort. Roads could be affected by smoke and there may still be damage in some areas as a result of the fires.Operators are asked to visit www.livetraffic.com for the latest traffic information, download the Live Traffic NSW app or call 132 701.OSOM NetworksVictoria and New South Wales have extensive Oversize, Overmass (OSOM) networks. Using these networks removes the need for a permit, unless otherwise stated.For general information on OSOM networks read the Information Sheet - Multi-State Class 1 Oversize vehicles notice.If travelling outside of these networks visit Oversize Overmass permit.National Bushfire Recovery AgencyThe Federal Government has made resources available through its National Bushfire Recovery Agency, which has been set up to coordinate a national response to rebuilding communities affected by bushfires.Although conditions remain volatile in areas across Australia, the Government is allocating short-term assistance for those in need.For more information see frequently asked questions and bushfire recovery assistance information and contacts.Heavy vehicle access across bushfire affected areas.The NHVR is experiencing a significantly increased number of permit applications. We request operators to avoid any non-essential permit applications in the coming weeks.Heavy vehicle operators on the road should take a number of steps when accessing bushfire-affected areas.Check the local road conditions through state government websites. A list of websites with the latest information about road conditions can be found below.If travelling in an affected area, check with local emergency services or recovery operations.Ensure your vehicle is able to travel on the existing network. If you’re travelling outside of these networks, you may need to obtain a permit through the NHVR Portal at www.service.nhvr.gov.au or call 1300 696 487 for assistance.Ensure you have enough food and water supplies in case of unexpected conditions, and avoid using back tracks or off-network roads to get around road closures.If fires have interfered with your ability to lodge access or accreditation applications please get in contact with us on 1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487) or info@nhvr.gov.au so we can provide appropriate support and guidance.NHVR to provide support to meet accreditation requirementsDue to recent bushfire activity over an extended period of time, it is possible some NHVAS accreditations could have lapsed with operators unable to lodge the required ‘maintain accreditation’ application or not being able to meet their audit commitments.With consideration to the extreme circumstances, should such a situation be the case, please contact the NHVR accreditation team so that we can provide appropriate support and guidance for continuation in the NHVAS.Road ClosuresThere continues to be a significant amount of road closures across the country due to ongoing bushfires.When planning your journey, please check the road closure maps below, in addition to using the relevant approved vehicle-type access maps within your state.You can find up-to-date maps for each state at the following:NSW https://bit.ly/371dXpg VIC https://bit.ly/2N0VPDy WA https://bit.ly/2N2U1tISA https://bit.ly/2tEFL3eQLD https://bit.ly/2ZYfiKsTAS https://bit.ly/2ZWSz10ACT https://bit.ly/35hN0eSNT https://bit.ly/2QrXynt
NHVR Bushire Bulletin 2
on 2020-01-10 04:45:30
by
IT Dept
Posted in
NHVR
Bulletin 2: Released on 10 January 2020 The effects of bushfires are continuing to impact heavy vehicle operations across Australia, with some areas of the country experiencing deteriorating conditions.NHVR is urging all heavy vehicle operators to take steps to ensure safe travel when operating in and around areas affected by bushfires.Where possible operators should avoid travelling in bushfire impacted zones, however if required be aware of local emergency access arrangements.The following Bulletin answers some of the questions we’ve received in relation to bushfire recovery.The next Bulletin will be available on January 15. Nullarbor re-openedThe Eyre Highway and the Coolgardie-Esperance Highway have been re-opened in both directions.Some speed restrictions are in place, and a large number of heavy and light vehicles are currently moving in both directions.The NHVR and other agencies are on site to assist with the flow of traffic.Operators are asked to ensure they carry sufficient fuel and water, as many roadhouses will be low or out of stock.Please stay up-to-date with the status of both highways, as conditions could change at short notice.> Click here for the latest information OSOM restrictions in Southern NSWTransport for NSW are reporting that OSOM restrictions are currently in place in Southern NSW in several areas impacted by fires.OSOM access (other than for emergency provisions) is restricted until further notice on the following roads:Princes Hwy (south of Nowra to Victorian border)Illawarra HwyKings HwySnowy Mountains HwyMonaro HwyKosciuszko RdBatlow RdJingellic RdAlpine WayBraidwood RdOSOM vehicles and combinations operating under permit are not permitted to travel in these areas until further notice.OSOM vehicles and combinations operating under a Notice are advised to avoid all non-essential travel in the area.If you are unsure if your OSOM movement falls within "emergency provisions" please contact RMS Road Access Unit on 1300 656 371 prior to commencing travel.For the latest traffic information for these areas, visit www.livetraffic.com or download the Live Traffic NSW app or call 132 701. Heavy vehicle access across bushfire affected areas.The NHVR is experiencing a significantly increased number of permit applications. We request operators to avoid any non-essential permit applications in the coming weeks.Heavy vehicle operators on the road should take a number of steps when accessing bushfire-affected areas.Check the local road conditions through state government websites. A list of websites with the latest information about road conditions can be found below.If travelling in an affected area, check with local emergency services or recovery operations.Ensure your vehicle is able to travel on the existing network. If you’re travelling outside of these networks, you may need to obtain a permit through the NHVR Portal at www.service.nhvr.gov.au/ or call 1300 696 487 for assistance.Ensure you have enough food and water supplies in case of unexpected conditions, and avoid using back tracks or off-network roads to get around road closures. Road ClosuresThere continues to be a significant amount of road closures across the country due to ongoing bushfires.You can find up-to-date maps for each state at the links below:NSW https://bit.ly/371dXpg VIC https://bit.ly/2N0VPDy WA https://bit.ly/2N2U1tISA https://bit.ly/2tEFL3eQLD https://bit.ly/2ZYfiKsTAS https://bit.ly/2ZWSz10ACT https://bit.ly/35hN0eSNT https://bit.ly/2QrXynt
NHVR Bushfire Recovery Information
on 2020-01-09 03:19:18
by
IT Dept
Posted in
NHVR
Bulletin 1: Released on 8 January 2020 The NHVR is urging all heavy vehicle operators to take steps to ensure safe travel when operating in and around areas affected by bushfires.Where possible operators should avoid travelling in bushfire impacted zones, however if required be aware of local emergency access arrangements.The following Bulletin answers some of the questions we’ve received in relation to work and rest hour exemptions, access arrangements and road conditions.The next Bulletin will be available on January 13.If fires have interfered with your ability to lodge access or accreditation applications please get in contact with us on 1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487) or info@nhvr.gov.au so we can provide appropriate support and guidance. Heavy vehicle access across bush fire affected areasThe NHVR is working with road and emergency services authorities to ensure safe access to affected areas. Heavy vehicle operators should take a number of steps when accessing bushfire affected areas.Check the local road conditions through state government websites. A list of websites with the latest information about road conditions can be found below.If travelling in an affected area, check with local emergency services or recovery operations.Ensure your vehicle is able to travel on the existing network. If you’re travelling outside of these networks, you may need to obtain a permit through the NHVR Portal at www.service.nhvr.gov.au/ or call 1300 696 487 for assistance. Ensure you have enough food and water supplies in case of unexpected conditions, and avoid using back tracks or off-network roads to get around road closures. Understand emergency fatigue provisions what you can and can’t doAn emergency services work and rest hour exemption may apply if working with or under the direction of emergency services. This includes transporting relief supplies or working to restore essential utilities and services.For this exemption to apply, written or verbal direction must be received from emergency service personnel.While the direction may exempt you from complying with work and rest limits and maintaining work diaries, they do not exempt an operator or a driver from managing fatigue.Drivers should keep a record of any instruction given by emergency services.Drivers should stop work and rest immediately if they are feeling fatigued at any time while operating a heavy vehicle. Eyre Highway closureThe Eyre Highway between Norseman and Caiguna remains closed in both directions due to the impact of fire and smoke. The following alert has been issued by the WA Department of Fire and Emergency Services.It remains unsafe for people to travel east due to worsening fire weather, the active Balladonia fire and the potential for dry lightning.All vehicles outside of this area are asked to stay away. Eyre Highway, Coolgardie-Esperance Highway and the border from South Australia into Western Australia will remain closed.> Click here for the latest information OSOM NetworksOperators are reporting a lot of large equipment is being moved during this period. Victoria and New South Wales have extensive Oversize, Overmass (OSOM) networks, which operators are encouraged to utilise where possible. Using these networks removes the need for a permit. Click here for general information on OSOM networksLocal network maps are available here:NSW - https://bit.ly/36xoPKFVIC - https://bit.ly/2ZXkVZe> Click here for general information on OSOM travelOSOM restrictions are currently in place in Southern NSW. Please note the list of local restrictions for non-emergency vehicles HEREIf travelling outside of these networks, please visit www.service.nhvr.gov.au for permit information. Contacts for fire informationNew South WalesNSW RFS: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au and www.fire.nsw.gov.auNSW Bush Fire Information Line: 1800 679 737Twitter: @NSWRFSVictoria Victoria Country Fire Authority: www.cfa.vic.gov.auVicEmergency Hotline: 1800 226 226Twitter: @VICemergencySouth Australia SA CFS: www.cfs.sa.gov.auBushfire Information Hotline: 1800 362 361SA Government Recovery Hotline: 1800 302 787Twitter: @CFSAlertsQueensland Queensland Fire and Emergency Services: www.qfes.qld.gov.auTwitter: @QldFESWestern AustraliaDepartment of Fire and Emergency Services: https://www.dfes.wa.gov.auPublic information: 133 337Twitter: @DFES_WA Road ClosuresThere continues to be a significant amount of road closures across the country due to ongoing bushfires.You can find up-to-date maps for each state at the links below:NSW https://bit.ly/371dXpg VIC https://bit.ly/2N0VPDy WA https://bit.ly/2N2U1tISA https://bit.ly/2tEFL3eQLD https://bit.ly/2ZYfiKsTAS https://bit.ly/2ZWSz10ACT https://bit.ly/35hN0eSNT https://bit.ly/2QrXynt