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60 defect notices issued during DG vehicle blitz

Last week in Sydney, heavy vehicles transporting dangerous goods were the subject of a blitz in which over 150 vehicles were intercepted.

The operation was conducted by National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) safety and compliance officers (SCOs), with the assistance of the EPA and NSW Police Highway Patrol Officers.

NHVR SCOs intercepted 155 vehicles and inspected 258 units for compliance. There were 60 defect notices issued, 15 of which were labelled ‘self-clearing defects’ and two that were classified as major notices for defective brakes.

Details on what the remaining notices were issued for have not been released. 

Director of operations Central Region at the NHVR, Brett Patterson, said maintenance and roadworthiness of heavy vehicles transporting dangerous goods has been a focus area for the regulator.

“We remind operators to effectively manage hazards and risks by completing a visual inspection of the vehicle, particularly brakes and couplings, to ensure it is safe and compliant before every journey,” he said.

“Ensure every vehicle’s load is restrained adequately to prevent significant safety risks.”

The NHVR also revealed that body worn cameras have now been issued to all SCOs in NSW, following the transition of heavy vehicle regulatory services.

These cameras have been in use by the NHVR since 2020 in South Australia, Victoria, the ACT and Tasmania.

The cameras capture audio and video recordings of interactions between officers and those involved in heavy vehicle transport activities.

According to the NHVR, officers will notify drivers and operators that the camera they are being filmed at the start of an interaction.

“Footage collected is stored and retained in a secure digital evidence management system in accordance with relevant evidence management requirements, and all access to BWC footage is monitored, tracked and auditable, similar to other agencies that operate BWCs such as police. Footage from BWCs can be used as evidence in court, and for investigative purposes,” revealed the NHVR.

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