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The NHVR has approved a user-friendly exemption to allow drivers of fatigue-related heavy vehicles additional time for personal use.
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said the Personal Use Exemption would allow operators more flexibility with up to one hour of personal use of a heavy vehicle outside their regulated driving hours, from February 1, 2018.
“We undertook extensive consultation with the heavy vehicle industry last September and October on a proposal to allow personal use of a heavy vehicle,” Mr Petroccitto said.
“This allows us to expand on a similar scheme which currently exists in NSW to Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and the ACT.”
The exemption must be used for private or non-commercial activities, such as reaching suitable sleeping accommodation and restocking supplies for a trip.
The NHVR received 60 submissions during the month-long consultation process, with more than 90 per cent supporting the more flexible arrangements.
Permitted personal activities would include, stowing or retrieving personal effects, cleaning a heavy vehicle, refuelling or attending to personal matters.
Mr Petroccitto said the exemption would allow drivers to use a fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle for personal activities during a 24-hour rest break or at the end of their shift.
“Drivers using the exemption still have a responsibility to manage their own fatigue. It is important drivers do not ignore signs of fatigue and stop driving if necessary,” he said.
“The exemption can only be used under standard hours. If additional work time is required for commercial needs, drivers and operators should apply for fatigue management accreditation.”
For more information on the Personal Use Exemption visit www.nhvr.gov.au/safety-accreditation-compliance/fatigue-management/personal-use-of-a-fatigue-regulated-heavy-vehicle
Contact: Andrew Berkman | 0429 128 637