Research hones in on truck driver fatigue
In an effort to improve safety for truck drivers, a new research project will delve into driver fatigue.
The project is a joint initiative between the Co-operative Research Centre for Alertness, Safety and Productivity, the National Transport Commission, road agencies, police and industry, and will monitor a sample of drivers during their work shifts and during simulated shifts in a laboratory.
“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,” said Noelene Watson, chair of the Australian Trucking Association (ATA).
“Complying with the rules is stressful for drivers and operators, because of the risk of making a mistake.
“And despite the complexity of the rules, there is only limited evidence available about their impact on driver fatigue and safety.”
Some state enforcement agencies have called for changes to the rules, particularly in relation to ‘nose-to-tail schedules’. The ATA pointed out in 2014 that there was not enough evidence about the practice for governments to make an informed decision, and therefore the research will address this issue.
“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,” said Watson.
“In addition, there needs to be more research into short rest breaks and electronic work diary tolerances, as well as fatigue issues relating to regional and remote operation.”
Watson also called on the TWU to rethink its opposition to the research.
“The TWU has announced that it opposes this research, basically because it does not involve re‑establishing the Road Safety Remuneration Tribunal,” she said.
“But fatigue experts agree that more research is needed into the effect of the fatigue rules. 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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