NHVR CEO Richard Hancock says the body is "actively considering" recommendations from a coronial investigation into the Kerang train crash
October 23, 2013
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has started considering recommendations stemming from a two-year coronial investigation into the fatal Kerang train and truck collision.
The 2007 crash in the Victorian town of Kerang killed 11 people when a truck hit a passenger train at a crossing. Victorian Coroner Dr Jane Hendtlass’s list of 25 recommendations included some specific to the NHVR’s operations.
Hendtlass called upon the NHVR to amend its code of practice to require brake pads and push rod extensions to be inspected weekly or fortnightly and for the National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (NHVAS) to include all Victorian heavy vehicle operators performing in-house maintenance.
Furthermore, Hendtlass wants mechanics working on heavy vehicles to have access to and comply with manufacturers’ maintenance instructions.
“We are already actively considering the coroner’s recommendations and will work with related authorities over the coming months,” NHVR CEO Richard Hancock says.
He says any formal response that requires changes to the NHVR’s statutory powers will be raised with transport ministers for consideration.
As required under Victorian legislation, the NHVR‘s response to the coroner’s recommendations will be publicly available.
