The NHVR is teaming up with police to launch a fatigue blitz across New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania this Christmas.
Operation Omega will see hundreds of officers on the ground, conducting inspections and ensuring truck drivers are complying with work and rest requirements.
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said the operation comes in response to unacceptably high rates of fatal heavy vehicle crashes and fatigue non-compliance.
“This year, we have sadly already seen 120 fatal crashes involving heavy vehicles across Australia and 135 lives lost.
“Fatigue remains one of the deadliest risks on our roads – which is why we are doing everything in our power to ensure all road users get home safe this Christmas.
“Officers will conduct roadside checks, inspect logbooks and monitor driving behaviour to identify and prevent fatigue-related incidents occurring.”
Petroccitto said Operation Omega will see officers focus their efforts across high-risk areas where driver fatigue poses “significant danger”.
He continued: “We are partnering with police across the country, increasing our patrols at identified high crash risk areas, during high fatigue risk hours.
“As part of the NHVR’s inform, educate and enforce approach, our officers will continue to work with industry to raise better awareness of the extreme risk that fatigue presents.”
From January to October this year, the NHVR recorded more than 1,750 fatigue-related offences across NSW, including heavy vehicle drivers exceeding their permitted work hours, or failing to record work and rest hours.
“While we understand the pressures and deadlines drivers may face during the busy festive period, cutting corners on rest is simply not an option,” Petroccitto added.
Heavy vehicle drivers who feel pressured by their employer to drive while fatigued can call the NHVR’s Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Hotline on 1800 931 785.