The NHVR will start accepting applications from Australian and international companies for Electronic Work Diary (EWD) approvals from today.
NHVR Safety Standards Director Greg Fill said the acceptance of applications was an important milestone in providing fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle drivers with a voluntary alternative to Written Work Diaries.
"I expect we'll start to see applications lodged to have EWDs approved in the coming weeks," Mr Fill said.
"We've spoken to many of the 37 technology providers and transport operators that have lodged a Notice of Intent with the NHVR and they are at different stages of development.
"Only products that meet the NHVR Standards and are approved by the NHVR can be used for regulatory purposes to record work and rest hours."
The finalised framework for the approval and use of EWDs has been released today. The framework is comprised of the EWD Policy Framework, EWD Privacy Policy, EWD Compliance Policy and EWD Standards (inclusive of Schedule A).
An EWD Self-Assessment Checklist was also released. Applicants should visit the NHVR EWD webpage to access the application form. Further guidelines and education material for drivers, record keepers, transport operators and technology providers will be available next month.
Mr Fill said the Australian Road Research Board (ARRB) had undertaken an independent review of the final EWD Standards.
"According to ARRB, the EWD Standards are 'technically robust because they are within a policy framework that includes supporting administrative policies and guidelines'," he said.
The NHVR will assess systems against the EWD Standards and a list of EWDs that have been approved will be made available on the NHVR website. The NHVR has also agreed to waive any regulatory fees for companies or individuals submitting systems for approval during the first year of operations.
For further information visit www.nhvr.gov.au/ewd
Contact:
Andrew Berkman | 0429 128 637