The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) says heavy vehicle drivers and operators should make the switch to the new National Driver Work Diary before Sunday, 10 August 2014.
According to NHVR CEO, Sal Petroccitto (pictured), the August deadline marks the end of the six-month change-over period following the introduction of the new work diary in February.
“The commencement of the Heavy Vehicle National Law earlier this year saw the new work diary roll out in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia, but we wanted to give industry time to make the change,” he said.
“Already we've seen nearly 67,000 new work diaries sold around the country, but I urge drivers travelling in and through these states who have yet to start using the diary to pick up a copy as soon as possible.”
In those states where the new fatigue laws apply, all drivers of fatigue-regulated heavy vehicles (more than 12 tonne GVM) who drive more than 100km from their home base; or operate under Basic Fatigue Management or Advanced Fatigue Management must complete a work diary to record their work and rest times unless they have a work diary exemption.
Exemptions may also be available to heavy vehicle drivers operating under standard hours, who cannot make records in their work diary because of literacy issues or a print disability.
The updated work diary is on sale for $20 across the country, including those states and territories where the national law or work diary provisions have not commenced.