The Australian Trucking Association (ATA) has released new editions of its technical advisory procedures on side underrun protection and conspicuity marking.
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The new advisory procedures known as TAPs was launched at the ATA’s 2024 Technology and Maintenance Conference in Melbourne by former ATA chair, Geoff Crouch.
The wider Safer Freight Vehicles approved by the Australian Government last year must be fitted with side underrun protection.
“Side underrun protection devices aim to protect vulnerable road users – pedestrians and cyclists – from falling under the wheels of a truck,” Crouch says.
“It’s also a requirement for construction vehicles accredited under the silver standard of the new safety initiative for construction trucks, CLOCS-A, but we recommend that they be installed widely.
“The new TAP sets out how to manufacture and fit side underrun protection to a range of vehicle types, with crisp, clear diagrams covering special cases that were raised by operators and overseas experience.”
Crouch says the new edition of the ATA’s conspicuity marking TAP would provide operators with the best practice guidance on how and where to apply high visibility tape to their vehicles.
“All Safer Freight Vehicles and CLOCS-A vehicles must have conspicuity marking, but again we recommend that it be used much more widely,” he says.
“During twilight or at night, visibility marking can reduce rear end collisions by up to 41 per cent. It can reduce side collisions by up to 37 per cent.
“The TAP includes comprehensive advice on how to apply tape to trucks and trailers for a long life, how to maintain the tape and information about unusual cases.”
Crouch extends his gratitude to the NHVR for creating the truck graphics in the TAP and acknowledges the efforts of ATA’s council and its members.
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