With road fatalities on the rise across Australia in 2024—including a significant number involving heavy vehicles—fatigue management and brake safety have never been more critical. The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has reinforced these concerns, making it essential for business owners and heavy vehicle operators to take proactive steps to protect drivers and other road users.
Recent Findings: A Wake-Up Call for the Industry
A two-week enforcement blitz, Operation Omega, conducted by the NHVR and police across multiple states, uncovered nearly 200 fatigue-related breaches, with 17 classified as “critical”—posing a high risk of fatal crashes.
Key concerns included:
- Drivers exceeding legal work hours and failing to take required rest breaks.
- Work diary falsifications, increasing the risk of fatigue-related incidents.
- Inadequate driver training, particularly for navigating steep descents safely.
Recent fatal crashes at well-known black spots highlight the dangers of poorly maintained brakes and improper braking techniques. Without proper training and vehicle upkeep, even experienced drivers can find themselves in life-threatening situations.
Key Steps for Business Owners
To strengthen safety within your operations, focus on these four critical areas:
- Fatigue Management – Implement robust systems to track driver work hours and rest periods. Ensure compliance with NHVR regulations and reinforce a workplace culture where drivers prioritise rest.
- Driver Training – Provide ongoing, practical training on steep descents and braking techniques. Regularly assess driver competency to ensure skills remain sharp.
- Brake Maintenance – Maintain a preventative servicing schedule with frequent brake inspections. Faulty brakes significantly reduce stopping ability, especially in emergencies.
- Open Communication – Encourage drivers to report fatigue concerns or vehicle issues without fear of reprisal. A strong safety culture starts with open dialogue.
Is Your Business Prepared?
The transport industry operates under tight pressures, but safety must always come first. Now is the time to review your fatigue management strategies, driver training, and vehicle maintenance schedules to ensure they meet best practice standards.
If you need guidance or would like a workplace safety review, the team at Business 360 is here to help. Contact us on 1300 287 360 or make an appointment to speak with a Workplace Risk Adviser Here to discuss your compliance and risk management efforts.