The National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (NHVAS), that is controlled by state and territory road transport agencies, was first introduced in 1999 as an alternative compliance scheme. In 2014, the NHVR took over the state based systems and now administer all aspects of the NHVAS. Through audit of their management systems, heavy vehicle operators can prove that their vehicles and/or drivers comply with the NHVAS standards to possibly access flexible conditions under the Heavy Vehicle National Law.
Operators of heavy vehicles can seek accreditation under the following NHVAS modules;
- Mass Management- On completing this module, operators may be able to operate at a slightly higher mass capacity due to the additional criteria met.
- Fatigue Management (Basic or Advanced) – Fatigue Management certification allows you to work and rest hours that are more flexible, as long as driver fatigue is effectively controlled.
- Maintenance Management – On completing this module, you must maintain your vehicles and adhere to all applicable standards. Some states demand annual inspections as part of the registration process but may exempt adequately maintained vehicles.
The NHVR’s NHVAS (National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme) provides accreditation for safety and compliance. The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is a government-affiliated organisation that oversees all heavy vehicles.
Criteria for eligibility
The NHVAS is open to any operator who is committed to abiding by the NHVAS Standards and Business rules.
When an internal compliance management system has been created, an entry audit will be conducted by an accredited NHVR auditor to ensure the accreditation requirements have been met. There are fees due to the NHVR to attain accreditation.
To obtain NHVR accreditation you must;
- Create and maintain a compliant quality management system that meets all applicable accreditation standards.
- Demonstrate your employees follow the quality management system’s criteria through documentation of the procedures followed.
- Produce compliance evidence and documents as required at the time of an audit. The independent audit is conducted by NHVAS authorised auditors. For heavy vehicle accreditation, a Chain of Responsibility safety system is essential.
Also Read: Penalties for Breaches of Heavy Vehicle National Law
Setting up a Chain of Responsibility Safety System
Chain of Responsibility is a term used in the HVNL that refers to all transport-related activities ensuring safety at all stages.
It is based on the idea that everyone in an organisation has a responsibility to watch out for the health and safety of others on a public road. Individuals who are parties to a COR can be held liable if their actions or inactions cause an accident.
Under Chain of Responsibility, various courses serve to help give required training to the persons involved. It also covers the legal framework and how it relates to the personal responsibility of the individuals involved in it. For a detailed explanation, MAEZ conduct online courses for differing roles in an organisation.
Effective reporting system
In some organisations, a Chain of Responsibility is used for effective disciplinary reporting for which CoR training is also provided. It is used so that everyone follows all the rules and regulations. As a general rule, when a worker violates a procedure, he is liable to be reported to their senior or loading manager. The punishment will be decided upon by the superior with the reporting continuing until the highest-ranking official is reached.
Chain of Responsibility Training
A Chain of Responsibility training program helps individuals to understand the basic concepts of the CoR legislation in the HVNL. CoR Training should include information on the following;
- Improving on-road safety
- Learning how individual choices can reduce damage to infrastructure
- Improving business efficiency and compliance
For more information on ensuring safety during heavy vehicle safety transport under Heavy Vehicle National Law, get in touch with experts at the MAEZ. They use innovative safety strategies and creative problem-solving methodologies to assist in minimise risks and improve safety. Employees can also complete training online so they know how to comply with the laws under HVNL.
Also Read: Passing Emergency Vehicles – What Do you Need To Do?