Origin Energy Services Limited to spend $380,000 after failing to respond to infringement offence

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator has accepted an enforceable undertaking from Origin Energy Services Limited (OESL) after the power retailer was charged with failing to respond to multiple Notice to Produce letters requesting information on a driver that didn’t divert into a weighbridge.

NHVR Director of Prosecutions Belinda Hughes said industry must respond to correspondence regarding infringeable offences and penalties issued by the NHVR and authorised officers under the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL).

“Charges were laid after the operator, OESL, failed to respond to three written requests to give information about a person responsible for a non-compliant heavy vehicle.

“This EU sends a strong message to industry to comply with Notice to Produce letters. We encourage individuals and organisations to engage with the NHVR and have a discussion around how to respond, dispute a request or ask for more information.”

Ms Hughes explained the EU requires OESL to spend approximately $380,000 towards a driver consequence management framework across all OESL’s business units and sponsorship of heavy vehicle health and safety forums.

“The value of this EU far exceeds the maximum fine the company would have received if this matter proceeded to court – with this outcome, the money will be reinvested into safety measures.

“The EU initiatives will deliver improved outcomes for an estimated five thousand staff employed by Origin Energy – OESL’s parent entity – as well as the wider transport industry.”

The safety initiatives must be completed within 12 months of the NHVR accepting the EU. Failure to comply with the EU can lead to prosecution.

To read more about the enforceable undertaking visit www.nhvr.gov.au/law-policies/enforceable-undertakings