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The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) sets out next steps for industry uptake, as the move toward Electronic Work Diaries (EWD) gains momentum.
The recent passing of the Heavy Vehicle National Law Amendment Bill 2015 is the first important milestone for a more streamlined recording process which will provide the heavy vehicle industry with a much needed reduction in paperwork.
The Bill provides the legal framework required for the next stage of technological specifications development. With a lot of work still to be done, the Transport Certification Australia (TCA) will lead the establishment of the EWD requirements for industry introduction in early 2017.
NHVR Executive Director of Productivity and Safety, Geoff Casey said EWD is a key example of where we are collaborating with industry to develop innovative technological solutions that enhance safety and sharpen productivity outcomes. We are committed to ensuring heavy vehicles operate safely on Australian roads.
“The Bill’s introduction is the first part of many to a streamlined electronic method for recording work and rest periods, an essential safety requirement for heavy vehicle drivers.
“There is still much more to do and further development, engagement and education is necessary to ensure its successful and staged role out over the coming years.
“Ultimately, EWD will provide greater consistency, deliver increased productivity benefits and cut red tape. It will address the current paper-based system inefficiencies and administrative burdens by providing a more simple and flexible voluntary alternative.
“EWD is a valuable investment to business and industry, with preliminary productivity benefits estimated to be upwards of $200 million in savings to transport operators, EWD system managers and authorities over five years,” said Mr Casey.
EWD differ from existing commercial electronic fatigue management systems as they are easier and faster to use for both the driver and industry. Their development and implementation will facilitate a more efficient and effective method of managing fatigue regulations.
For the time being, the current paper based work diaries remain as the only mechanism for officially logging work and rest periods in the management of fatigue across the heavy vehicle industry. For information and assistance on the current system please contact Andreas Blahous, Fatigue Specialist at the NHVR on Fatigue.Management@nhvr.gov.au
Contact: Jillian Bagnall | 07 3309 8605