Posted by Hubfleet
In this episode of Risky Business, Glyn Castanelli and Craig Forsyth discuss the ins and outs of mass management in the trucking industry. The hosts delve into the importance of understanding and complying with mass regulations, highlighting the potential risks and consequences of non-compliance. They explore the necessary steps to establish a robust mass management system, offering practical advice for both drivers and operators.
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Prefer a quick read? Check out our summary article and FAQs below.
The Weight of Responsibility: Mastering Mass Management in Trucking
In the intricate world of trucking, ensuring compliance with mass regulations is paramount. Neglecting this crucial aspect can lead to severe consequences, impacting not only your business but also the safety of all road users.
The Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) clearly states that every driver and operator has a responsibility to ensure their vehicle, its components, and the load comply with the prescribed mass limits. Failure to do so can result in hefty fines, legal ramifications, and even the loss of your operating privileges.
A key challenge in the industry is the lack of awareness and understanding regarding mass management. Many drivers are unaware of their vehicle’s tare weight or the allowable mass limits for their specific operations. Similarly, operators often fail to adequately plan and manage the weight of their loads, leading to breaches.
Real-world cases illustrate the seriousness of mass violations. For instance, a Melbourne-based scrap metal company was fined $180,000 for 69 mass breaches, including several instances of exceeding the permissible limits by over 20%.
To avoid such penalties and ensure compliance, it’s essential to establish a robust mass management system within your trucking operation. This system should encompass comprehensive policies, procedures, training, and documentation, covering all aspects of mass management.
Here are some key elements to consider:
For drivers
- Know Your Vehicle: Understand the tare weight of your truck and trailer combination, as well as the gross and axle weight limits for the scheme you are operating under (GML, CML, HML, PBS, or permit).
- Regular Gauge Checks: If your vehicle is equipped with weight gauges, make it a habit to regularly check their accuracy. Take advantage of weighbridges at customer sites, depots, or along your route to verify the readings.
- Ask Questions: When being loaded, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the weight of the load, the weight of individual pallets, and the distribution of heavy and light items. This information will help you ensure your load is arranged correctly and within legal limits.
- Company Procedures: Familiarise yourself with and adhere to your company’s mass management procedures, particularly weight declarations if required.
- Refuse Unsafe Loads: If you are not satisfied that your load is legal, do not proceed with the trip. Remember, the ultimate responsibility for compliance rests with you, the driver.
For businesses
- Formalise Procedures: Implement a comprehensive mass policy and procedure document that outlines the expectations and responsibilities of all personnel involved in the loading and transport process.
- Training is Key: Provide thorough training to your team, including operations staff, loaders, and drivers, on mass policies and procedures, associated risks, and compliance requirements.
- Accurate Tools: Equip your drivers with the necessary tools to accurately determine load weights, such as onboard scales, weight gauges, or access to weighbridge facilities.
- Calibrate Regularly: Ensure onboard scales and weight gauges are calibrated regularly to maintain accuracy. This may involve utilising a calibrated weighbridge or seeking professional calibration services.
- Load Plans: Provide drivers with detailed load plans that include the known weight of the load and its distribution. This will help them make informed decisions regarding load placement and axle weight management.
- Digital Systems: Consider implementing a digital safety management system, such as the one offered by Hubfleet, to streamline record-keeping, track loads and trips, and capture driver declarations of compliance. This can significantly enhance efficiency and ensure accurate documentation for audit purposes.
Remember, compliance with mass regulations is not merely a box-ticking exercise. It is about safeguarding your business, protecting your drivers, and ensuring the safety of everyone on the road. By prioritising mass management and implementing a robust system, you can mitigate risks, avoid penalties, and contribute to a safer and more sustainable trucking industry.
Stay Compliant, Stay in Control
Managing mass compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. With Hubfleet’s Electronic Work Diary, you can simplify compliance, reduce risk, and keep your operations running smoothly. Stay ahead of regulations and ensure your fleet is always road-ready.
Ready to streamline your mass management? Sign up for a free trial today or contact our team to see how Hubfleet can help your business stay compliant, efficient, and in control.
