Victoria and Queensland join ACT, NSW, South Australia and Tasmania with the implementation of the manual
The roll out of the National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual across Victoria and Queensland will improve vehicle standards compliance and help reduce vehicle downtime, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) says.
The manual, which is effective from July 1, has already been in force in the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, South Australia and Tasmania.
“The NHVR is committed to delivering national harmonisation for the heavy vehicle industry, as we know trucks don’t stop at the borders,” NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto says.
“Victoria and Queensland join the ACT, NSW, South Australia and Tasmania with the implementation of the manual into their inspection regimes, bringing greater consistency to heavy vehicle inspections.”
The NHVR is planning to conduct a National Roadworthy Baseline Survey to better understand the state of Australia’s heavy vehicle fleet, including rigid, articulated, B-doubles, road trains, buses and plant equipment.
“The manual will also be used for inspection trials in the coming weeks for the National Roadworthiness Baseline Survey which will inspect almost 9,000 heavy vehicles during August and September.
“This will be the largest health check of heavy vehicles ever undertaken in Australia.”
Authorised officers and vehicle examiners, across all participating states and territories, will inspect heavy vehicles based on the same standards and criteria, he says.
“The manual means operators now have a clear picture of the standards, tools and processes used in an inspection, providing confidence in knowing their maintenance meet said requirements.
“We want to encourage a more proactive approach to vehicle maintenance and repair.
“We are working with industry, road transport authorities and police to produce resources and tools to unlock the improved safety outcomes that a national manual will deliver.”
The manual applies to all vehicles that have a gross vehicle mass (GVM) greater than 4.5 tonnes.