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New oversize overmass scheme begins

RMS says the oversize overmass escort vehicle driver scheme will benefit the industry

 

The first stage of the Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) Oversize and/or Overmass (OSOM) Escort Vehicle Driver Scheme (EVDS) starts in NSW’s Hunter Valley today.

The scheme aims to help the industry get access to a bigger pool of trained and accredited service providers and authorised escort vehicle drivers to facilitate OSOM moves.

RMS safety and compliance director Jo Treacy says the new scheme will allow private operators to apply for accreditation to escort over size over mass vehicles as they travel throughout the state.

“Up until now, these services have only been provided by NSW Police,” Treacy says.

“A greater pool of appropriately trained and accredited service providers will deliver the heavy vehicle haulage industry a more flexible range of services with improved efficiency.

“Businesses can apply to be accredited as service providers and individuals can apply to be authorised as escort vehicle drivers to accompany these large, oversized moves and perform traffic control duties.”

Participants will be able to join the scheme free of charge in the first two phases, with accredited providers to fund their own operating costs including, purchase of vehicle, signage, lighting and livery. 

“Safety has been at the core of the development of the scheme with stringent requirements for applicants to demonstrate they have the skills and experience to manage vehicles along these journeys.

“Applicants seeking to become authorised escort vehicle drivers will be required to carry out specialised training including six specific competency modules through registered training providers.”

RMS says the OSOM EVDS will be rolled out in phases so that it can identify any potential issues or safety risks involved.

“The program will be rolled out in stages starting in areas where freight demand is high.

“Many heavy vehicle trips start and end in the Hunter Valley, especially at night, which is why it has been chosen for the first stage of the program.

“Phase Two will see the scheme roll out to the Western regions of NSW where much of the state’s agricultural OSOM freight task is carried out.”  

The scheme is supported by an information campaign that will encourage road users to follow the directions of the escort vehicle drivers and encourage safer driving behaviour around OSOM vehicles. 

The scheme involves Class 1 OSOM vehicles under the Heavy Vehicle National Law.

 

 

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