SA Newsletters
Heavy Vehicle Newsletter #2
1. Enhancements to the Dimension Restrictions map
In May 2024 the Department announced the release of the Dimension Restrictions map. Since then, the Department has sought to enhance the map by increasing the available data and creating a better user interface. The Department is pleased to release the enhanced Dimension Restrictions Map, now called Heavy Vehicle – Road Operations Access Map or HV-ROAM.
New features to the map include:
- Steep descent information
- TrafficSA data
- Rest areas
- Train and tram overhead wires
- Signage which affects heavy vehicle access
- SA Power Network (SAPN) wires
- Key resources
For more information and access to the map, please visit our HV-ROAM webpage.
If you have questions, please contact the Heavy Vehicle Policy Team on 1300 334 640 or via dit.roadauthority@sa.gov.au.
2. Creation of a South Eastern Freeway visual
The Department has consulted with key industry stakeholders on the creation of a new visual aid. The visual aid displays key features along the South Eastern Freeway, from Crafers to the Glen Osmond intersection.
The visual aid seeks to inform heavy vehicle operators of key landmarks and safety features along the descent to contribute to a safer journey. This is to familiarise themselves with the road and the safe driving requirements.
The visual has been attached to this Heavy Vehicle Newsletter edition but can also be viewed on the HV-ROAM webpage or by selecting the ‘Steep descent’ information on the new Heavy Vehicle – Road Operations Access Map (HV-ROAM).
Please share this resource with fellow heavy vehicle operators.
3. Road safety reminder for the South Eastern Freeway descent
The South Eastern Freeway, on the approach to Adelaide, ends in a 7km continuous steep downhill descent before arriving at a major intersection.
Before you descend the South Eastern Freeway, remind yourself how to do it safely. Just one truck or bus driver making a mistake, or not realising they need a safety refresher, could cost multiple lives.
All truck and bus drivers must:
- engage low gear at Crafers and remain in this gear to the bottom of the South Eastern Freeway;
- reduce speed to a maximum 60 km/h, unless otherwise signed at a lower speed or your load requires a slower speed, from Crafers to the bottom of the South Eastern Freeway; and
- stay in the left lane between Crafers and the Measdays Bridge.
If you find yourself travelling too fast or have any doubts about arriving safely at the major intersection at the end, always use a safety ramp. The Department for Infrastructure and Transport does not charge a fee, and even covers the costs of towing heavy vehicles out of the safety ramps.
Find all advice, rules and a map showing safety ramp locations at dit.sa.gov.au/SEFreewaySafety
4. Reminder for operators to obtain third party clearances
Third Party entities may need to be consulted for some restricted access vehicle movements, subject to length, width and / or height of the vehicle and its load. Third party consents that are often required include the following –
1. Utilities: restricted access vehicles may have adverse effects on overhead utilities infrastructure such as telecommunications/power lines. Required consents include, but are not limited to:
- SA Power Networks (SAPN) must grant consent to travel on any route where the height of a vehicle and / or its load exceeds 4.6 metres. A permit from SAPN is required whether you are operating under a Notice or an access Permit, as wire heights can change.
2. Rail infrastructure managers: the movement of restricted access heavy vehicles across level crossings or near rail infrastructure may create risks that need to be managed.
3. Police, especially with respect to the movement of oversize vehicles, due to the potential risks to other road users and possible need for police assistance to control traffic. Refer to the Escorting Guidelines for further information.
Refer to the NHVR website for third party contact details.
5. Reminder for operators to check for current and upcoming major works
The Department further wishes to remind operators of ongoing maintenance and other road infrastructure works across South Australia. These works are published as maps and alphabetical lists of locations on the Department’s Addinsight app and the TrafficSA website.
For all roadworks, delays may be experienced so please plan ahead. Operators are reminded to always make use of the above tools, to make sure your journey is as smooth as possible. We appreciate your cooperation and patience while these important works are undertaken.
For further information regarding South Australian infrastructure projects, please contact the Department’s project management team (see contact details below):
DIT Project Team: Tel: 1300 794 880 Email: DIT.CommunityRelations@sa.gov.au