A new research project into truck driver fatigue will help improve safety rules, the Australian Trucking Association (ATA) says.
The project will monitor a sample of drivers during their real-life work shifts, and then in a laboratory during simulated shifts.
It is a joint initiative between the Co-operative Research Centre for Alertness, Safety and Productivity, the National Transport Commission, road agencies, police and industry.
The ATA is a member of the project steering committee,
“The Heavy Vehicle National Law fatigue rules are complex, with detailed provisions about how to count work and rest time and overlapping 24 hour counting periods.
“Complying with the rules is stressful for drivers and operators, because of the risk of making a mistake,” ATA chair Noelene Watson says.
“And despite the complexity of the rules, there is only limited evidence available about their impact on driver fatigue and safety.”
She says the research will help lawmakers decide if change is needed.
“The ATA also considers that the research needs to cover the quantity and quality of sleep that drivers get during major rest breaks, including the benefits of allowing split rest so drivers can move their trucks to a quieter spot after buying food or having a shower.”
“The research will improve safety – and help make sure the rules are no more complicated than is absolutely necessary.”
The Australian Government has committed more than $800,000 to the project.
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