An update to the widely used Master Code of Practice is now underway to help drive better safety outcomes.
The Master Code is a registered industry code of practice that was first developed by the Australian Trucking Association (ATA) and the Australian Logistics Council (ALC) in consultation with industry and registered by the NHVR in November 2018.
It is a practical guide to assist in achieving the standards of heavy vehicle safety and compliance required under the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL). It provides information for parties in the Chain of Responsibility (CoR) about hazards and risks which may arise from their heavy vehicle transport activities, and the control measures they can use to reduce those risks.
NHVR Director Regulatory Standards and Policy Paul Daly said the review of the code is an opportunity for industry and stakeholders to have their say on what should be added or updated.
"We invite industry to provide feedback for the current version and comment on whether the hazards, risks and controls in the code are still relevant, or to suggest new issues, safety methods or techniques," said Mr Daly.
"The Master code is a great regulatory tool that we can use to improve safety for all road users. We want the code to continue to remain an authoritative source of information for safety in the heavy vehicle transport industry."
Since 2018, the industry has significantly matured in its understanding of primary duties and the skills required to manage safety. This review of the Master Code is intended to further support parties in the Chain of Responsibility and provide current and reliable information to make transport activities safer.
Australian Trucking Association Chair David Smith said, "The ATA and ALC consulted extensively on the original development of the Master Code. It was a huge job; we're delighted that the Code is now used so widely.
"This long-planned review will ensure that the Code remains up to date as the industry continues to improve its safety." said Mr Smith.
The review of the code will consist of six phases, requiring input from stakeholders in multiple phases. The review will commence in June 2023 and will use a variety of channels to seek industry feedback and comments. The NVHR anticipates that the review will be completed by March 2024.
Regular updates will be provided through NHVR social media channels and our industry newsletter On The Road on a monthly basis.
