The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has announced that its major fatigue initiative, Operation Forager, has been a success.
Running across NSW, QLD, Victoria, SA, the ACT and Tasmania over November and December 2023, the industry regulator aimed to crack down on fatigue and on-road compliance across the holiday season.
NHVR officers conducted more than 5,350 heavy vehicle intercepts across the Southern and Central Regions.
Chief operations officer Paul Salvati says they placed a strong emphasis on the importance of maintaining accurate work diaries.
“Work diary and fatigue-related education was provided in 623 of these intercepts, accounting for approximately 156 hours of roadside education with drivers, highlighting the NHVR’s commitment to safety within the heavy vehicle industry,” says Salvati.
“By investing significant time and effort in educating heavy vehicle drivers on work diaries and fatigue, especially new drivers, we aim to create a lasting impact that extends beyond the duration of this operation.
“Education is an investment in safety. By ensuring drivers understand the importance of accurate work diaries, we are arming them with the knowledge to actively manage their work and rest hours.
Despite the push for education, Salvati says the NHVR will not hesitate to enforce the Heavy Vehicle National Law where required.
“Of the total intercepts conducted by NHVR officers, 207 resulted in fatigue-related compliance action,” he says.
“Unfortunately, 129 of these offences were detected for driver’s exceeding their allowable work hours, or not taking adequate periods of rest.
“We want to remind heavy vehicle drivers of the critical importance of practicing safe behaviours, including taking rest and meal breaks.
“If you are on the road and feel the five signs of fatigue – inattention, irregular body movements, erratic vehicle movements, dull sensory alertness, or poor concentration – please, take a break.”
The NHVR is pleased with the success of their operation.
“Operation Forager shows the effectiveness of our holistic approach to safety, that combines education with enforcement, ensuring that heavy vehicle operators are not only aware of the regulations but also equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions on the road about their safety,” he says.
“I would like to commend the heavy vehicle industry for their safety efforts over the busy holiday period, particularly during the severe weather events we experienced across the country.”