Supply chain focus for heavy vehicle safety

16-03-2017

A new round of heavy vehicle Chain of Responsibility information sessions will kick off in Brisbane today, as the industry gears up for new laws in 2018.

Federal Transport and Infrastructure Minister Darren Chester said today’s National Heavy Vehicle Regulator Forum would assist businesses in the heavy vehicle supply chain to understand their role in heavy vehicle safety.

“More than 160 companies will receive information about the Chain of Responsibility reforms which are currently being rolled out nationally,” Mr Chester said.

“There were 213 deaths from 191 fatal crashes involving heavy trucks or buses in 2016. I am determined to see that number continue to fall and make heavy vehicle safety everyone’s business.

“The NHVR information sessions will complement heavy vehicle and national workplace safety laws, and make it easier for duty holders to understand and assess their risks, and know whether they are complying with the law.

“Through the replacement of existing prescriptive obligations, the whole transport industry can benefit from a reduction of red tape and better apply risk management processes to focus on safety outcomes.”

Mr Chester said the Federal Government would support the transition to the new laws with an $800,000 information campaign by the NHVR, including forums across Australia.

Queensland Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said he looked forward to hearing from the heavy vehicle industry in Brisbane today on the changes to the CoR laws.

“The Forum will support the changes which passed through Queensland Parliament in December last year to improve safety outcomes and provide a strong and more stable supply chain,” Mr Bailey said.

“Whether you are a consignor, scheduler, CEO or board member all parties in the supply chain will need to be more proactive in managing risks to ensure safe transport operations.”

NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said the NHVR would provide information to support the heavy vehicle industry and the heavy vehicle supply chain through these changes.

“Earlier this year we released our guidelines for Industry Codes of Practice, and a series of Chain of Responsibility fact sheets and podcasts as part of a national effort to boost safety for all road users,” he said.

“The new reforms come into effect in mid 2018, giving all businesses across the heavy vehicle supply chain time to prepare for the changes.”

To make sure your business is ready for the changes please visit www.nhvr.gov.au/cor