SPV Crane Certification Program operating in NSW

12-12-2014

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) and Roads and Maritime Services have collaborated with the crane industry to ensure the Special Purpose Vehicle Crane Certification Program continues in New South Wales.

NHVR Chief Executive, Sal Petroccitto, today announced that from Monday 15 December 2014, crane operators in New South Wales can continue to rely on self-declaration of the dimension and weight of particular special purpose vehicles for registration purposes.

"This is a common-sense approach borne out of our discussions with the recently-established NHVR Crane Industry Operations Group," said Mr Petroccitto.

"Members representing the crane industry were keen for the NSW model of crane registration to continue.

"The NHVR quickly identified the changes needed and worked with Roads and Maritime to integrate the existing processes and procedures," said Mr Petroccitto.

Crane Industry Council of Australia (NSW Branch) Chair, Paul Churchill, thanked the NHVR and Roads and Maritime for their efforts to continue this important process for operators.

"Having this simple yet robust process continue is a win for industry resulting from our ongoing practical partnership with the NHVR and Roads and Maritime," said Mr Churchill.

To enhance the program, the NHVR added a new guideline to improve the safety and compliance of participating vehicles.

The new Weight Measurement Procedure introduces specific weighing requirements to ensure certification of the vehicle's weight is applied consistently across the program. A few simple steps will ensure the axle mass is correctly assessed, taking into account the variety of scales used and how the vehicle is weighed.

Where an imported SPV requires an In-principle Support Application through the NHVR, operators can self-declare through the SPV Crane Certification Program to confirm the vehicle's weight and dimension.

"The self-declaration process was originally developed to cut red tape for industry and to provide greater industry responsibility in the operation of SPVs on the road network," Roads and Maritime Services General Manager of Compliance and Enforcement Paul Endycott said.

"However, a full assessment by an authorised crane inspection station is still required before the vehicle can be registered in New South Wales to ensure it complies with relevant standards, " said Mr Endycott.

From Monday 15 December 2014, certifiers in New South Wales must use the new dimension and weight measurement procedures.

Operators will still need to submit applications for access to the road network (if the vehicle can't operate under an existing exemption notice).

"The success with the SPV Crane Certification Program is a good example of our commitment to reduce red tape for heavy vehicle business with government, wherever possible," said Mr Petroccitto.

For more information, visit the Roads and Maritime website at www.rms.nsw.gov.au/business-industry/heavy-vehicles/road-access/mobile-cranes.html