Road managers
Accessibility tools
Truck and bus companies have supported the use of Fatigue and Distraction Detection Technology to improve safety outcomes by helping prevent accidents before they occur, rather than looking in the rear vision mirror after the fact.
This finding comes from an NHVR-commissioned study (as part of a five stage safety initiative) and was undertaken by independent consultants from HGH Consulting and CQ University, including internationally acclaimed sleep scientist, Professor Drew Dawson.
NHVR Fatigue Specialist Andreas Blahous said this technology has the potential to be a game changer and the NHVR will work towards a collaborative approach to encouraging adoption of the new technology that includes drivers and management.
“The study found that the use of technology significantly reduced the frequency of fatigue and distraction events and identifies possible events to help prevent crashes before they occur,” Andreas said.
“As one driver told the study; ‘it’s like having a mate in the cab that taps you on the shoulder’.
“According to the research, companies reported that the technology showed distraction events outnumbered fatigue events by four to one.”
The study included information obtained from interviews with 80 transport and bus company employees – including drivers, owners, schedulers and safety staff – from 12 road freight and bus companies. Interviews were also conducted with eight suppliers involved in developing, manufacturing or selling safety equipment.
The Research Report: Phase 2 Fatigue and Distraction Detection Technology Use in the Australian Road Freight Transport Sector is available at www.nhvr.gov.au/safety-accreditation-compliance/fatigue-management/fatigue-monitoring-trial