The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has just announced it will accept applications for Electronic Work Diaries (EWDs) from May 28, after releasing the final consultation report today.
NHVR Productivity and Safety Executive Director Geoff Casey has today said the Regulator is satisfied EWDs will provide a sustainable and effective voluntary alternative to written work diaries to record work and rest hours for heavy vehicle drivers.
“There are more than 200,000 written work diaries purchased every year, including many by drivers who are already using electronic systems to assist in managing their work and rest hours,” Casey said.
“I’d like to thank all the operators and organisations that took the time to provide feedback during the consultation period earlier this year.
“After reviewing the feedback I am satisfied that the issues raised have or will be addressed and the development of EWDs as a voluntary option for drivers can begin.
“From next month, we will be in a position to start receiving and assessing applications for approval from technology providers and transport operators who have advised their intention to develop an EWD. I’d expect to see EWD products available for drivers in the coming months.”
The NHVR has confirmed it received 25 submissions during the consultation period between December and February.
In the Notice of Final Rule Making 1702 released today, the NHVR clarifies how operators will be treated fairly whether using written work diaries or EWDs, as well as outlining the permitting of manual entries at any point before the end of the work day.
The Regulator is set to review candidate systems against the EWD Standards and a full list of EWD approvals will be available on the NHVR website.
Casey said the NHVR has also agreed to waive any regulatory fees for companies or individuals submitting candidate systems for approval.
“We’ve also been working closely with authorised officers and police to inform them of the type of information they’ll see under the EWD Compliance View,” Casey said.
For further information or to view the Notice of Final Rule Making 1702, visit www.nhvr.gov.au/ewd