Posted by Hubfleet
Welcome to the inaugural episode of Risky Business, a fortnightly podcast brought to you by Hubfleet, hosted by industry expert Glyn Castanelli, Head of Industry Engagement and Customer Success, and Craig Forsyth. In this first episode, Glyn and Craig lay the groundwork for the series, introducing their mission to demystify the complexities of compliance and safety in the Australian transport industry.:
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Prefer a quick read? Check out our summary article and FAQs below.
Navigating the Road to Safety: Compliance is Everyone’s Business
The Australian transport industry is governed by a comprehensive framework of legislation and regulations designed to ensure safe and efficient operations. However, a common misconception is that compliance is primarily the concern of large transport operators or those under specific accreditation schemes like TruckSafe. This is far from the truth.
Why Compliance Matters
Every business operating within the transport sector, regardless of its size or the type of vehicles it utilises, carries responsibilities under the law. Understanding and embracing these responsibilities is not merely a legal obligation; it’s an investment in the safety of everyone on the road and the long-term sustainability of the business itself. Key areas of focus include:
- Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL): This overarching legislation forms the bedrock of road transport regulations, outlining the primary duties of all parties involved – from drivers and operators to those within the supply chain.
- Work Health and Safety Act: While not solely focused on transport, this legislation has significant implications for the industry. It underscores the duty of employers to provide a safe working environment for their employees, encompassing drivers and all personnel involved in transport operations.
- Chain of Responsibility Legislation: A critical aspect of the Australian transport regulatory landscape is chain of responsibility legislation. This legislation extends accountability beyond the driver, encompassing everyone in the supply chain who has a role in influencing transport activities. This shared responsibility necessitates a collaborative approach to safety and compliance. NHVR CoR (National Heavy Vehicle Regulator Chain of Responsibility) plays a vital role in enforcing and providing guidance on these obligations.
- Fatigue Management: Driver fatigue is a significant risk factor in the transport industry. Understanding and adhering to fatigue management regulations, including work diary requirements and mandated rest breaks, is paramount for ensuring driver alertness and preventing accidents.
Moving Beyond a ‘Tick-Box’ Approach
Moving beyond a ‘tick-box’ mentality and embracing a proactive, safety-focused culture is essential. This involves:
- Implementing robust fleet safety management systems that go beyond basic compliance.
- Providing comprehensive driver training and inductions that cover not just legal requirements but also best practices for safe and efficient operations.
- Regularly reviewing and updating safety procedures to address emerging risks and adapt to evolving industry standards.
- Seeking expert advice from specialists in areas like mass management to ensure accurate and compliant loading practices.
By understanding that compliance is everyone’s business and taking proactive steps to build a safety-centric culture, the Australian transport industry can collectively strive towards a future where every journey ends safely.
Simplify Compliance with Hubfleet
Interested in taking your compliance to the next level? Sign up for a free trial of Hubfleet’s innovative digital compliance solutions or get in touch with our team to find out how we can help streamline your operations and keep you on the right side of the law.
