The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is reminding heavy vehicle drivers to prioritise their work and rest requirements, following 5257 fatigue related offences recorded nationally last financial year.
NHVR Chief Operations Officer Paul Salvati said that driving while feeling sleepy, physically or mentally tired is a major safety concern.
“Fatigue is more than feeling tired or drowsy, it’s mental and physical exhaustion that reduces your ability to work safely and effectively,” he said.
“Performing any task while fatigued will jeopardise your own safety and drivers endanger more than their own life when getting behind the wheel.”
In the previous financial year (2023-2024), more than 4900 fatigue offences were recorded nationally.
“Almost a third of offences recorded last financial year were fatigue related which is an unacceptable number,” Salvati stressed.
“If you’re ever unsure of what your work and rest requirements are, always err on the side of caution and rest when needed because no load is worth your life.
“There’s no such thing as a second chance when it comes to a serious accident or fatality.”
The NHVR website provides guidance on how to comply with work and rest requirements, including counting time, recording keeping and training in fatigue risk management.
Salvati also urged any driver feeling pressured to drive while fatigued to call the NHVR reporting line (1800 931 785).
“No-one should feel unsafe while at work, which is why the Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Line is available to report safety issues such as driver fatigue, business practices and mechanical safety,” he said.
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