The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is launching a nationwide operation to tackle fatigue, following nearly 5,000 fatigue-related breaches detected last year, with drivers being reminded that they should never drive if they feel tired or show signs of fatigue.
The NHVR will conduct Operation Ambit across the country over the coming weeks, focusing on heavy vehicle drivers who take unsafe risks with their work and rest requirements.
“Fatigue is one of the biggest risks for heavy vehicle crashes across Australia,” NHVR Chief Operations Officer Paul Salvati said. “We understand heavy vehicle driving is a challenging task, and some drivers may face pressures to meet tight deadlines, but safety must always come first.”
This month’s operation will see NHVR Officers conducting vehicle intercepts, including vehicle inspections, work diary checks and licence and registration checks. Some jurisdictions will also see police partner with the NHVR to ensure a coordinated national approach to fatigue compliance.
With some employers pressuring drivers to meet tight deadlines, the NHVR also operates a Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Line 1800 931 785, where drivers can report inadequate fatigue management, falsified records, unrealistic scheduled or pressure to drive.
Victorian employers can find information about how to plan, manage and monitor safe work-related driving at WorkSafe Victoria’s Work-related driving | WorkSafe Victoria page.
Read more: NHVR launches national operation to combat heavy vehicle driver fatigue | NHVR