The Australian Trucking Association has welcomed the establishment of a new reporting line that allows truck drivers and operators to confidentially report safety breaches.
Launched by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), the hotline will receive and assess truck safety concerns to determine what action is required.
“This reporting line is welcome news for the trucking industry, as safety is everyone’s responsibility,” ATA Chair Geoff Crouch said today.
“Many employees and operators, if pressed to act illegally, are worried about losing their contract so they are afraid to report breaches,” he said.
Information and breaches that can be reported include:
- An incident or situation that affects the safety of a heavy vehicle or its operation.
- A procedure, practice or condition that endangers the safety of a heavy vehicle driver, their passengers, other road users or the community.
- A procedure, practice or condition that leads to non-compliance with the Heavy Vehicle National Law.
The Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting line is now open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and operated by Crime Stoppers Queensland.
“The knowledge that all reports will remain confidential should encourage more people to speak out and stand up for safety, without the fear of being punished,” Mr Crouch said.
“We know it happens. In 2012, for example, 17 per cent of trucking companies reported that their customers were likely to impose a financial penalty for late arrivals – a clear breach of the law.
“The first step businesses need to take if they are pressured to break the law is to talk to their customers about its requirements. The ATA/ALC master code of practice will provide customers and industry will clear guidance on how to comply,” he said.
To report a safety breach, phone 1800 931 785.