Fatigue roadblock reveals general compliance

A recent WorkSafe roadblock exercise at Port Hedland, Western Australia, revealed generally good compliance with fatigue safety laws but some continuing problems with rest breaks.

The joint roadblock, conducted by WorkSafe inspectors, Main Roads WA and WA Police, involved commercial vehicles being observed leaving Perth then being pulled over at Port Hedland to check whether the required rest breaks had been taken.

WorkSafe WA Commissioner Nina Lyhne said the operation found there had been continuing improvements in compliance with the fatigue laws for commercial vehicles but there was still room for improvement: “Fatigue is still a significant OHS issue in the commercial transport industry and it’s pleasing to see that transport companies are largely in compliance with the major aspects of WA’s fatigue regulations.

“Inspectors did find some continuing problems with mandatory rest breaks and notices were issued when breaches were discovered.

“We’ve seen a steady increase in understanding of the fatigue laws since we began conducting these roadblocks five years ago, and it seems that the industry has generally come to grips with the fact that the laws are there to ensure commercial vehicle drivers are given sufficient rest.”

A total of 174 commercial vehicles were stopped at the Port Hedland roadblock, with one prohibition notice issued to a driver who had not had the mandatory seven-hour rest break. One improvement notice was also issued.

In addition to these notices, inspectors will follow up with 16 transport companies on other fatigue-related issues such as medical checks for drivers, training of drivers and keeping proper records.

“Fewer notices were issued on this occasion and there was a further reduction in the number of follow-ups required, a pleasing result overall,” continued Lyhne. “Although we’re pleased with the improvement in compliance, it is worth reminding the industry that the human body has limitations and adequate sleep and rest is essential to safely undertake long-distance driving.”