New Heavy Vehicle Driver Fatigue Laws in 2008
In 2008 new nationally consistent Heavy Vehicle Driver Fatigue (HVDF) laws will be introduced in South Australia and in all other states and territories (except WA and the ACT).
The new laws consider the health and well-being of heavy vehicle (including bus) drivers, aiming to help drivers get home safely by requiring that all parties in the chain-of-responsibility take ‘reasonable steps’ to prevent driver fatigue. The new laws stress that the causes of fatigue are a responsibility shared by off-road parties in the supply chain and unrealistic driver schedules and consigner demands and practices are not acceptable.
The new laws provide for three different options:
Offences under the new laws are classified according to the actual level of risk and the greater the risk involved, the more significant the penalties. Penalties will range from an infringement notice to court imposed penalties and loss of demerit points.
What do you need to do?
Prepare yourself for the implementation of the new laws by:
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determining which of the three options best suits your current work practices (ie SH, BFM or AFM);
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consulting with key personnel and drivers about the best way to manage fatigue in your work place;
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undertaking training that provides you with an understanding of driver fatigue and meets the competency requirement for accreditation;
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developing a fatigue management system utilising a risk assessment approach;
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preparing yourself to make an application for accreditation to the relevant jurisdiction if required.
Where can I find out more?
As the project develops further information will be available on this website. Information on the new laws is available on the National Transport Commission website.
The Heavy Vehicle Driver Fatigue Team is available for further information on 1300 784 344 during normal business hours or email dtei.driverfatigue@saugov.sa.gov.au.
Subscribing to receive updates
If you would like to receive ongoing updates on the introduction of the Heavy Vehicle Driver Fatigue laws in South Australia you can subscribe online (Note: this link will open in a new secure browser).
