The Australian Transport Council (ATC) has unanimously endorsed a training package to support heavy vehicle driver fatigue accreditation.
New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia are working toward implementing the national Heavy Vehicle Driver Fatigue reform on 29 September 2008.
Drivers and schedulers working under the new Basic Fatigue Management (BFM) or Advanced Fatigue Management (AFM) schemes must now demonstrate that they are competent at managing fatigue risks. Drivers working under Standard Hours will not be impacted.
“It’s basically a step-up from the existing Transitional Fatigue Management Scheme (TFMS) training requirements”, said National Transport Commission (NTC) Chief Executive Nick Dimopoulos.
“Drivers will have their existing training and skills recognised, so many will only need to complete a ‘top-up’ course.”
Drivers currently accredited in the TFMS scheme can operate under BFM hours until 30 April 2009. This provides more time to complete the training.
A Statement of Attainment in the following competencies can be obtained from Registered Training Organisations (RTO):
More information on training, including a list of RTOs offering competency units, has been published on the NTC website.
NTC has developed an extensive national communications package to assist transport operators, drivers and other parties in the supply chain. An Implementation Kit includes bulletins, fatigue and napping guidelines, self-assessment tools, presentations and promotional material.
“Commencement of the new laws is less than six months away. I’d encourage everyone in the supply chain to understand how the new laws impact on your business and what you need to do, such as training drivers and schedulers,” Mr Dimopoulos added.
Ministers also approved the BFM and AFM Standards, Assessor and Enforcement Officer Guidelines, minor amendments to the model legislation and a new national Work Diary.
Links
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Content on the NTC website is free and available for download in the Heavy Vehicle Driver Fatigue reform section. Check road agency websites for the latest information on reform implementation in your State or Territory HERE
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Background
New national road transport Heavy Vehicle Driver Fatigue laws are set to commence on 29 September 2008.
The reform – developed with significant input from the industry – addresses the root causes of driver fatigue, rather than simply regulating work hours. Operators who require drivers to work long hours and night shifts must reduce driver fatigue risks through audited accreditation schemes.
There are three options for maximum work time and the minimum rest time to choose from. Standard Hours will suit most businesses as it sets default limits for work and rest.
If an operator requires more flexible hours, they can consider applying for Basic Fatigue Management (BFM) or Advanced Fatigue Management (AFM) in which operators must demonstrate greater accountability for managing fatigue risks.
The new laws also ensure all parties in the supply chain take ‘reasonable steps’ to prevent fatigue. Employers and customers will be held legally accountable for dangerous work schedules and long truck queues, which are known to be major causes of fatigue.
Penalties escalate sharply for offences which pose a serious road safety risk; including court-imposed fines of up to $50,000 and demerit points. |