Forum aims to help supply chain managers understand their position regarding reform
A new round of heavy vehicle Chain of Responsibility information sessions have kicked off in Brisbane, as the industry gears up for new laws next year.
Federal transport and infrastructure minister Darren Chester says the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator Forum assisted businesses in the heavy vehicle supply chain to understand their role in heavy vehicle safety.
“More than 160 companies will receive information about the Chain of Responsibility reforms which are currently being rolled out nationally,” Chester says.
“There were 213 deaths from 191 fatal crashes involving heavy trucks or buses in 2016.
“I am determined to see that number continue to fall and make heavy vehicle safety everyone’s business.
“The NHVR information sessions will complement heavy vehicle and national workplace safety laws, and make it easier for duty holders to understand and assess their risks, and know whether they are complying with the law.
“Through the replacement of existing prescriptive obligations, the whole transport industry can benefit from a reduction of red tape and better apply risk management processes to focus on safety outcomes.”
The federal government has pledged support the transition to the new laws with an $800,000 information campaign by the NHVR, including forums across Australia.
Queensland main roads minister Mark Bailey said he looked forward to hearing from the heavy vehicle industry in Brisbane today on the changes to the CoR laws.
“The Forum will support the changes which passed through Queensland parliament in December last year to improve safety outcomes and provide a strong and more stable supply chain,” Bailey says.
“Whether you are a consignor, scheduler, CEO or board member all parties in the supply chain will need to be more proactive in managing risks to ensure safe transport operations.”
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said the NHVR would provide information to support the heavy vehicle industry and the heavy vehicle supply chain through these changes.
“Earlier this year, we released our guidelines for Industry Codes of Practice, and a series of Chain of Responsibility fact sheets and podcasts as part of a national effort to boost safety for all road users,” Petroccitto adds.
“The new reforms come into effect in mid-2018, giving all businesses across the heavy vehicle supply chain time to prepare for the changes.”