The ACT and Tasmania joined South Australia this week in adopting the National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Version 2.
The ACT Minister for Territory and Municipal Services, Shane Rattenbury MLA welcomed this step towards a nationally consistent approach.
"Due to the hard work of Access Canberra, the NHVR and other stakeholders, operators can start benefitting now from the improved safety outcomes that a national manual will bring," said Mr Rattenbury.
NHVR CEO, Sal Petroccitto said the manual brings greater national consistency to heavy vehicle inspections, with all participating states and territories adopting the manual by 1 July 2016.
"The manual provides authorised officers, vehicle examiners and operators a consistent set of criteria when conducting heavy vehicle inspections, ensuring a national approach to the management of vehicle safety.
"The NHVR has commenced working with industry on developing tools to assist them incorporate the manual into their maintenance programs.
"This is the first part of a National Heavy Vehicle Roadworthiness Program to encourage industry to adopt a preventative maintenance regime that will improve the overall safety of Australia’s heavy vehicle fleet,” said Mr Petroccitto.
Other outcomes of the Roadworthiness Program include:
- clear national inspection standards
- agreed qualifications and equipment for those performing inspections
- a consistent approach to management of heavy vehicle defects across borders.
Further information on the National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Version 2 can be found at www.nhvr.gov.au/nhvim