TWU supports regulations on driver fatigue

The TWU's Federal Committee of Management has announced its support for the NSW WorkCover OH&S regulations on Long Distance Truck Driver Fatigue.

NSW WorkCover officials made a presentation to a recent FCOM meeting and dispelled the myths surrounding the new OH&S measures to reduce heavy vehicle driver fatigue.

The intention of this regulation is to minimise fatigue for drivers of all heavy trucks and encourage the development and implementation of a Driver Fatigue Management Plan.

John Allan, federal secretary of the TWU, said the use of the chain of responsibility is vital to ensure that the application of a driver fatigue management plan is consistent in all states.

The National Transport Commission has failed to recognise the critical importance of delivering national standards for fatigue. Given the transient nature of the industry, the TWU argues that uniformity in these regulations is vital. The NTC should now concentrate their efforts in supplementing the NSW regulations to avoid any duplications for operators and drivers.

Mr Allan said fatigue has been recognised as a major factor in heavy vehicle related accidents, and the NSW regulations addresses problems such as vehicle scheduling and queuing which the driver has little control over.

These new fatigue regulations will lead to a safer trucking industry and will address road safety concerns of the general community.