Tasmanian primary producers who have questions on changes to Chain of Responsibility laws can meet with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) at information sessions next week.
NHVR Chain of Responsibility Manager Kym Farquharson-Jones said primary producers play an important role in supporting safe, reliable road transport to all road users, particularly heavy vehicles.
“Because they are part of the heavy vehicle supply chain, primary producers have for almost a decade had the same role to play for heavy vehicle safety as other parties in the chain,” she said.
“Amendments to the Chain of Responsibility laws coming later this year will align the existing laws more closely with workplace health and safety provisions.
“Although the laws will change, they will still only apply to activities that a person or business has responsibility for and could influence. In other words no one will be liable for breaches they cannot control.”
For a primary producer who contracts transport services to another operator some areas of responsibility may include:
- Avoid requests, instructions, requirements or demands that may influence the driver to speed or drive while fatigued.
- Ensure stock or loads are ready to load on time so that a driver is not unduly delayed and pressured to speed or exceed fatigue hours.
- Ensure safe access, while on your property.
If you contract heavy vehicle services use operators that provide safe and compliant transport activities, consult your provider to ensure any safety risks are understood and steps are taken to mitigate those risks.
The Tasmanian information sessions are free and will be at Smithton, Burnie (March 19), Ulverstone, Deloraine (March 20), Longford (March 21), Scottsdale, Campbell Town (March 22), and Kempton (March 23).
For more information visit www.nhvr.gov.au/cor