The NHVR says it has kicked off a targeted compliance operation across the Apple Isle which it says is to ensure heavy vehicles are roadworthy and that drivers are meeting work and rest requirements on some of the state’s busiest freight and construction routes in Tasmania.
NHVR’s Operation Amplify will see its Safety and Compliance Officers (SCOs) undertake roadside inspections in high activity areas including Hobart, Launceston and Burnie following recent compliance operations that identified safety risks within the building and construction industry.
NHVR’s acting executive director for on-road operations, Steve Miller said previous operations across the state had revealed high rates of non-compliance.
“Almost 30% of heavy vehicles intercepted during similar operations were found to be non-compliant, with mechanical issues identified as the highest area of non-compliance,” Miller said
“Load restraint was another area of significant concern, particularly unsecured tools and construction materials.
“Any type of unsecured load can impact a heavy vehicle’s stability, steering and brake performance, placing drivers and other road users at serious risk.”
Miller said SCOs would also be checking work diaries to ensure drivers are complying with their work and rest requirements.
“Fatigue remains one of the most significant contributors to serious incidents,” he said.
“Our officers will be paying close attention to fatigue management, because no-one should be behind the wheel if they’re not fit to drive, and no load is worth your life.
“If a heavy vehicle driver feels pressured to operate while fatigued, they can contact the Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Line which is available Monday to Friday, 7am-4:30pm AEST.
Miller said Operation Amplify would help the NHVR determine whether compliance levels within the building and construction sector have improved.
The NHVR’s Load Restraint Guide provides best practice load restraint systems to meet loading requirements and loading performance standards.
