Road managers
Accessibility tools
A major joint operation between the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) and South Australia Police (SAPOL) with a focus on heavy vehicle safety has concluded.
NHVR Director Southern Region Paul Simionato said Operation Crossroads 2020 was a local operation with a national impact – focusing on the “crossroads” of Australia.
“The four-day joint operation ran between 9 October and 12 October, with a primary focus of monitoring the safety and compliance of heavy vehicles travelling on the Augusta Highway,” Mr Simionato said.
“NHVR and SAPOL officers from metropolitan and country areas participated in the Operation which concentrated on driver fatigue and roadworthiness. These are both very significant safety risks for everyone using our roads.
“I want to acknowledge the good spirit and cooperation from drivers on the road, most were happy to chat to us and were just as focused as we are on safety.
“We always try to take an education-first approach to try and fix up minor issues so drivers can continue on their way safely.”
Inspector Joanne Howard, Officer in Charge of SAPOL’s Heavy Vehicle Enforcement Section acknowledged that there was room for improvement.
“There were a significant number of defect and expiation notices issued during this operation,” Inspector Howard said.
“The results reveal some companies have more work to do to ensure they maintain a roadworthy fleet. Equally, drivers are also responsible for ensuring they take breaks and maintain work diaries.
“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility and police will continue to work with the NHVR and other key partners to keep South Australian’s safe on our roads.”
Mr Simionato said that it was important for operators and drivers alike to prioritise safety.
"It’s a timely reminder to take simple steps to make sure you and everyone else on the road can get home safely,” he said.
“That means always checking your vehicle for issues before you head off and making sure you’re taking your breaks and filling in your work diary.”
Results of the operation:
- 228 Defects issued
- 295 Expiations issued
- 5 Cease Work Notices
- 2 Arrests
- 15 Court Reports