Victorian Bus & Truck Drivers' Handbook PDF

The Victorian Bus & Truck Drivers’ Handbook More information Publication information For further information please phone 13 11 71 Authorised and published by VicRoads or visit vicroads.vic.gov.au...

The Victorian Bus & Truck Drivers’ Handbook More information Publication information For further information please phone 13 11 71 Authorised and published by VicRoads or visit vicroads.vic.gov.au 60 Denmark Street, Kew, Victoria 3101 ISBN 9789 0 7311 9165 9 Latest information on road laws First published July 1988 Road laws change from time to time. So, tests for the road laws will change as well. Check that you have the most recent Reprinted with amendments October 2019 edition of this book by visiting vicroads.vic.gov.au. If you are in © Crown Copyright doubt, check with any of the Customer Service Centres. Roads Corporation, Victoria, Australia. Copyright This work is copyright. Apart from uses permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced, in whole or in part, by any process without written permission from VicRoads. Permission is hereby given to copy and distribute parts of this work (within the limitations specified in the Copyright Act) for the purposes of bona fide research and instruction, provided such copies are made available free of charge. Table of contents Introduction – What this handbook is about and how to use it 2 Chapter 1 – Driver licences 4 Chapter 2 – The Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) 16 Chapter 3 – Fatigue management and National Driver Work Diary 22 Chapter 4 – Ready to drive: driver health and safety 38 Chapter 5 – Vehicle checks 44 Chapter 6 – Controlling your vehicle 52 Chapter 7 – Driving on the road: planning and observing 60 Chapter 8 – Communicating with other drivers and how to judge safe speed 76 Chapter 9 – Vehicle emergencies 84 Chapter 10 – Crashes 94 Chapter 11 – Dimensions and load limits 96 Chapter 12 – Heavy vehicle signs 104 Chapter 13 – Coupling and uncoupling trailers 110 Chapter 14 – Skills required to drive a bus 116 Words that heavy vehicle drivers need to know 120 Index 124 3  Introduction - What this handbook is about and how to use it Why you should read this handbook This chapter includes: This handbook tells you about some of the main legal requirements for drivers »» Why you should read of heavy vehicles in Victoria. It is intended as a guide only and does not set this handbook out in full all the requirements of the law. »» Your legal rights Before you read this handbook you need a general knowledge of our and obligations road laws. Road law information is contained in the Road to Solo Driving »» How to use this handbook handbook available at VicRoads Customer Service Centres, RACV offices »» Some technical words you and some newsagents. should know The Road to Solo Driving handbook can be viewed from the VicRoads »» Why there is a national system website at vicroads.vic.gov.au of driver licence classes Your legal rights and obligations The legal requirements described in this handbook will change from time to time. To understand all your legal rights and obligations, you should refer to the Road Safety Act 1986 (Victoria) and related Road Safety Regulations, as well as the Transport Act 1983 (Victoria) and the Heavy Vehicle National Law (Victoria) and associated national Heavy Vehicle Regulations. More information on the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) and associated Regulations can be viewed at nvhr.gov.au. 4  Introduction How to use this handbook Why there is a national system of driver This handbook will help you to understand some of the special licence classes rules and regulations that apply to driving a heavy vehicle. All states and territories in Australia have a uniform driver If there is something specific you need to know about, you can licence system. The licence classes are: look it up in the index at the back of this handbook (page 124). At the start of each chapter, there is an information box telling C Car HR Heavy Rigid you what is in the chapter. LR Light Rigid HC Heavy Combination At the end of each chapter is a section called Test Yourself MR Medium Rigid MC Multi-Combination Questions. These help you check if you’ve understood important material in the chapter. Each state and territory in Australia has the same licence and The language of heavy vehicles vehicle categories. There are many words that have a technical or special What this means for you is that you can use VicRoads to meaning for heavy vehicles. You’ll find them used frequently get a licence or register a heavy vehicle, which allows you throughout this handbook. to drive in any state and territory, with the same vehicle and the same licence. Check the list at page 120 for a description of these industry-specific terms. 5  Chapter 1 – Driver licences Driver licences This chapter includes: All states and territories have implemented common rules and categories »» Driver licences for heavy vehicles. The National Heavy Vehicle licence scheme includes all vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) above 4.5 tonnes. »» N  ational heavy vehicle Driver licences are issued in the categories shown in the diagram on the next licence classification page. If you have a licence, you may drive any class of vehicle within or above »» Penalties for unlicensed driving your licence category as shown in the diagram. »» Learning to drive a heavy vehicle Check what you can drive with each category of licence. The letters written in brackets are the code for the licence class. This code will be printed on your »» W  hich parts of this handbook you new licence in the square labeled Licence Type. need to know for the assessments The HVNL does not affect the way you go about getting your driver’s licence. »» Accredited providers Drivers can still do some of their heavy vehicle business at VicRoads Customer »» S  pecial needs of heavy Service Centres, including applying for and renewing your driver licences vehicle drivers and purchasing the new National Driver Work Diary. »» Medical eligibility »» V  ehicles for which you need special permits to drive »» Carrying dangerous goods »» Mobile equipment »» V  ehicles and load requirements for assessment »» Assessment in a loaded vehicle »» Cabin cameras »» Test yourself questions 6  National heavy vehicle licence categories Chapter 1 - Driver licences CAR (C) You are eligible for a car A vehicle of 4.5 tonnes GVM or licence at 18 years of age. less, seating up to 12 people. LIGHT RIGID (LR) You are eligible for a LIGHT A vehicle greater than 4.5 tonnes but no RIGID licence after holding greater than 8 tonnes GVM or which seats an Australian car licence more than 12 people (including driver). for 1 year. You are eligible for a MEDIUM RIGID (MR) MEDIUM RIGID licence after Any 2 axle rigid vehicle greater than holding an Australian car 8 tonnes GVM. licence for 1 year. You are eligible for a HEAVY HEAVY RIGID (HR) RIGID licence after holding A vehicle 8 tonnes GVM and above, an Australian car licence with 3 or more axles. for 2 years. HEAVY COMBINATION (HC) (a) A prime mover to which is attached a You are eligible for a HEAVY COMBINATION single semi-trailer that has a GVM more licence after at least 1 year of holding either than 9 tonnes plus any unladen converter a MEDIUM RIGID or HEAVY RIGID vehicle dolly; or (b) A rigid motor vehicle to which is licence. You must also successfully complete attached a trailer that has a GVM more than an approved training course. 9 tonnes plus any unladen converter dolly. MULTI COMBINATION (MC) You are eligible for a MULTI COMBINATION A Heavy Combination vehicle with more licence after 1 year of holding a HEAVY than one trailer. COMBINATION or a HEAVY RIGID vehicle licence. You must also successfully complete an approved training course. Note: The content and duration of the course will depend on the category of licence held. 7  Chapter 1 - Driver Licences Penalties for unlicensed driving Learning to drive a heavy vehicle It is an offence to drive a vehicle in a category for which you Until you get your heavy vehicle licence you may drive a are not licensed. It is also an offence to employ or allow heavy vehicle only if you are accompanied by a person who someone who does not hold the right category of licence to holds a valid licence for the type of vehicle you are driving. drive that vehicle. You must display Driver Under Instruction plates at the If you have a crash while driving a vehicle you are not front and rear of the vehicle. licensed to drive, the Transport Accident Commission may While learning to drive a heavy vehicle, you must have a zero not pay all your compensation claim. Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) at all times. 8  Chapter 1 - Driver licences Which parts of this handbook you need to Refer to the list below for topics your instructor should cover know for the assessments before your theory and practical assessments. The on-road practical driving assessment has been designed to closely To obtain a heavy vehicle licence, Victorian applicants need assess the driving skill of heavy vehicle licence applicants. to successfully complete a theory assessment, an off-road practical assessment and an on-road practical driving This handbook provides information on what is expected of assessment. The off-road practical assessment includes a successful licence applicant. The practical assessment will activities such as load securing, pre-operational check assess your skill in: and cabin drill. »» Pre-operational check You should read all chapters of this handbook to prepare for »» Cabin drill the assessments. »» Start, move off, shut down and secure The theory assessment that you must pass to get a heavy »» Steering vehicle licence is based on the material in this handbook. »» Gears Multi Combination (MC) and Heavy Combination (HC) »» Manages brakes applicants must pass a theory assessment based on information presented during the training course. »» Manages accelerator The theory assessment must be passed once for the rigid »» Create and maintain Crash Avoidance Space vehicle requirements and once for the articulated vehicle »» Protect Crash Avoidance Space requirements. The theory assessment must be passed before »» Road rules and directions the applicant is permitted to commence the off-road practical »» Reverse assessment or the on-road practical driving assessment. »» Hill stop/start A handbook cannot provide driving experience, so heavy vehicle licence applicants need on-road and off-road driving »» Load securing training from experienced heavy vehicle drivers. »» Coupling/uncoupling (articulated vehicles only) »» Bus stop procedure (bus only) 9  Chapter 1 - Driver Licences Accredited providers Special needs of heavy vehicle drivers In Victoria accredited providers conduct all heavy vehicle Heavy vehicle drivers are professionals who spend most of licence tests on behalf of VicRoads. Visit the VicRoads their working hours on the road. website vicroads.vic.gov.au for a list of organisations that Heavy vehicle drivers usually drive further than car drivers are accredited by VicRoads to conduct heavy vehicle training and drive for longer hours than other drivers. So there is a and testing. greater chance of them being involved in crashes. If you pass your licence assessment with an accredited provider, Heavy vehicles accelerate more slowly than passenger cars you will be issued with a VicRoads Certificate of Competence. and take longer to stop, so more judgement and driving skill You will need to take the certificate to a VicRoads Customer is required to drive heavy vehicles. Crashes which involve Service Centre to get your licence. heavy vehicles are more likely to cause severe injury and greater damage than crashes which involve only cars. Car drivers can make heavy vehicle driving more difficult when they do not know about the slower acceleration, braking and space needed by heavy vehicles. The community expects professional drivers to have a higher standard of knowledge and skill. 10  Chapter 1 - Driver licences Medical eligibility Having these conditions does not necessarily prevent the There is a wide range of medical, hearing and eyesight issue of a licence but will require careful evaluation. In some conditions which will prevent the issue of a heavy cases a restricted licence may be considered. vehicle licence. Drivers are required by law to notify VicRoads of any Some common conditions that may affect the issue of a serious, permanent or long term illness, disability, medical heavy vehicle licence include: condition or injury (or the effects of treatment for any of those things) that may affect their fitness to drive. »» visual defects, including loss of vision in one eye In addition to the appropriate licence, you must obtain a »» hearing defects Driver Accreditation to drive a vehicle carrying passengers »» angina, heart disease/surgery/hypertension, having for hire and reward. Strict eyesight requirements apply a pacemaker to Driver Accreditation applicants. See page 8 for Driver »» some psychiatric disorders Accreditation enquiries. »» epilepsy »» diabetes »» sleep apnoea »» head injuries, dementia, stroke »» Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis »» physical disabilities/partial or complete loss of limbs. If you are concerned that you may not be eligible, you should speak to your doctor or contact VicRoads on 13 11 71 and ask to speak to the Medical Review area. 11  Vehicles for which you need special permits Special note to drive 1. If you are tested in a vehicle fitted with synchromesh gears, a condition on your licence Driver Accreditation must be held by drivers of: will apply. The letter “B” will show on your licence. »» passenger buses  To have the condition removed, you will need to be »» private omnibuses retested in a vehicle with non-synchromesh gears. »» special purpose vehicles 2. If you have a manual car licence and you are tested »» restricted hire vehicles. in a heavy vehicle with an automatic transmission, Driver Accreditation you will be restricted to driving heavy vehicles with Holding a vehicle licence does not automatically entitle you to synchromesh gears. The letter “B” will show on drive passenger vehicles. You will normally only be issued a your licence. certificate if you have: 3. If you have an automatic car licence and you are »» a good driving record tested in an automatic heavy vehicle, you will »» no criminal convictions, including sex, alcohol or drug be restricted to automatic vehicles during your offences probationary period. »» no medical condition which may affect the skills  After your probationary period, your licence will needed to drive a commercial vehicle. be converted to manual for car only, but the Enquiries about Driver Accreditation should be made to the condition limiting you to synchromesh gears for Victorian Taxi Directorate on 1800 638 802 (Toll free). Ask for heavy vehicles will continue to apply unless you are Driver Accreditation. retested. The letter “B” will show on your licence. 12  Chapter 1 - Driver licences Carrying dangerous goods Vehicle and load requirements for assessment To transport bulk dangerous goods on Victorian roads a Vehicle requirements driver must: The vehicle used for the off-road and on-road practical »» be registered with the Victorian WorkCover Authority assessments must be the correct type and configuration for »» have a current permit issued by the Victorian the class of licence for which the applicant is applying and WorkCover Authority approved by VicRoads as detailed below. It must be registered, »» carry the permit at all times when driving a vehicle roadworthy and comprehensively insured. Any vehicle fitted with carrying bulk dangerous goods a manual gear box, but having its gears changed by robotic or »» have a valid driver licence for the category of vehicle computerised systems, is regarded as an automatic vehicle. being driven. Multi Combination (MC) If you are not a Victorian resident, you must have a permit »» A Heavy Combination vehicle with more than one to carry that class of goods and a valid driver licence for the trailer. The vehicle must be B-Double rated and have vehicle you are driving issued by your own state or territory. all the pertinent documentation, permits etc. The You must carry the permit and driver licence with you at combination must be at least 22 metres in length, in all times. B-double configuration. Mobile equipment »» The minimum vehicle type for an MC is a three axle prime mover with an A and B trailer each with Operator certificates must be held by drivers who operate: bogie axles. »» mobile cranes »» self-loading cranes Heavy Combination (HC) »» fork-lifts »» A vehicle consisting of a prime mover and a semi‑trailer. »» concrete pumps with booms. The prime mover must have a minimum of three axles Enquiries about Dangerous Goods and Mobile Equipment and the semi-trailer a minimum of two axles. The vehicle can be made to the Victorian WorkCover Authority on must have a Gross Combination Mass (GCM) rating of (03) 9641 1555. at least 39 tonnes; or »» A Heavy Rigid vehicle which is towing a trailer. The trailer must have at least two axles and a GVM of 12 tonnes or more. 13  Heavy Rigid (HR) Vehicle restrictions »» A rigid vehicle, not being an unladen prime mover, with Most vehicles will be suitable for on-road tests, however a minimum of three axles and a minimum 15 tonnes some have restrictions placed on them as follows and cannot GVM; or be used for licence testing: »» A modified three axle prime mover with a certified »» Armoured vehicles detachable tray (with the capacity to carry 75% of its »» Dual control vehicles specified GVM) with a minimum GVM of 15 tonnes and »» Vehicles displaying trade plates holds dual registration (HC and HR), or »» Vehicles carrying a placard of dangerous goods »» A three axle articulated bus*; or »» Special Purpose Vehicles (except emergency service »» A three axle bus* above 15 tonnes GVM. vehicles) Medium Rigid (MR) Cranes, specialised road working vehicles and farm »» A two axle rigid truck, not being a prime mover, above machinery 8 tonnes GVM; or »» Federal Interstate Registered vehicles »» A two axle bus* above 8 tonnes GVM. These vehicles may only be used if a special permit has been supplied by the relevant transport authority Light Rigid (LR) »» A rigid truck above 4.5 tonnes GVM but less than or »» Livestock transport vehicles equal to 8 tonnes GVM; or If the load is livestock »» A rigid bus* with less than or equal to 8 tonnes GVM or »» * Buses, coaches and motor homes seats more than 12 adults, including the driver. Buses or motor homes will only be permitted to be used as an assessment vehicle for light rigid assessments only as long as the vehicle fits the specification for a light rigid vehicle (see above). For all other vehicle categories, buses, coaches and motor homes will only be approved for use as an assessment vehicle in special circumstances as determined by VicRoads. 14  Chapter 1 - Driver licences In such circumstances these vehicles are exempt from Cabin cameras carrying a load. Assessments must not be conducted in It is a requirement that vehicles are equipped with cabin these vehicles when carrying passengers, with the exception technology approved by VicRoads. The on-road practical of VicRoads auditors. driving assessment will need to be recorded using audio, Assessment in a loaded vehicle video and GPS technology. Both the applicant and assessor will be recorded during the assessment. To check an applicant’s ability to drive a loaded heavy vehicle some tasks, specifically the on-road practical driving assessment tasks, require the vehicle to be loaded. All loads must be positioned and secured in compliance with the National Transport Commission’s guidelines, available at ntc.gov.au The loaded vehicle must have a mass which is at least 75% of the maximum mass allowable for the vehicle to be driven on public roads. This is at least 75% of either the legal mass limit, Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) for rigid vehicles or Gross Combination Mass (GCM), for articulated or heavy trailer combinations. The vehicle must be able to maintain adequate road speed. See Chapter 11 for details on loads. If the applicant is being assessed in their own vehicle, it is the applicant’s responsibility to check the load requirements beforehand and be prepared to provide documented evidence such as a weighbridge ticket that was issued within the past 24 hours. The accredited heavy vehicle assessment provider must ensure that photographic evidence of the load in the applicant’s vehicle is captured and kept on file for auditing purposes. 15  Notes 16  Chapter 1 - Driver licences Test yourself questions (Answers to test yourself questions are upside down at the bottom of this page) 1 If you do not hold a heavy vehicle licence you may drive a heavy vehicle only if A. you are accompanied by a person who has a licence for that type of vehicle and you display Driver Under Instruction plates B. you display L plates and do not drive on highways C. you drive in daylight hours only and are accompanied by a person who has a licence for that type of vehicle 2 If you have a Medium Rigid (MR) licence, you may also drive a A. Heavy Combination (HC) vehicle B. Heavy Rigid (HR) vehicle C. Light Rigid (LR) vehicle A nswers 1A 2C 17  Chapter 2 – The Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) The Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) and Regulations have commenced This chapter includes: in Victoria. »» Law enforcement Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia, Australian Capital Territory »» Speed limits and Tasmania have introduced the law as well. The Northern Territory and Western Australia have not commenced the HVNL at this time. »» Seatbelts For the first time, heavy vehicle drivers, operators and others in the supply »» Portable warning triangles chain in those states and territories where the law has commenced will be »» Railway crossings working to the same rules, regardless of where they operate. »» Requirements to weigh The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) will administer the new law for your vehicle heavy vehicles over 4.5 tonnes gross vehicle mass. »» Parking In addition to this law, drivers of heavy vehicles must comply with all other road laws. A summary of these road laws can be found in the Road to Solo »» Chain of responsibility Driving handbook, which is available from VicRoads Customer Service »» Test yourself questions Centres, RACV offices and some newsagents. You should have a copy of it to read together with this handbook. Law enforcement VicRoads Transport Safety Services (TSS) and Victoria Police aim to improve road safety for all road users and protect roads and bridges from damage by ensuring that heavy vehicles comply with the road laws. Compliance and enforcement of the Heavy Vehicle National Law is a key function of TSS officers. The law authorises them to intercept offending road users. While their focus is on heavy vehicle regulations, TSS officers can also exercise judgment in issuing fines for offences by any road user. VicRoads TSS officers will continue to enforce heavy vehicle offences under the HVNL on behalf of the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator. Legal and court processes will largely remain as they are. To enforce the HVNL, VicRoads TSS officers use both marked and unmarked vehicles with magenta flashing lights. 18  Chapter 2 – The Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) Local councils may also enforce parking and load limits within It is an offence for any heavy vehicle to travel faster than their boundaries. 100 km/h anywhere in Victoria. You must stop when you are signaled to do so by a Police If any tyre on a vehicle is not a pneumatic tyre, the maximum officer or a VicRoads TSS officer. They may check: speed for the vehicle on any road is 25 km/h (a pneumatic »» the mass and dimensions of your vehicle and its load tyre is one which is filled with air). »» the condition of your vehicle »» your work diary, any relevant paperwork (eg access permit or accreditation) and licence details. Warning note The legal speed limit may not always be the safe speed It is an offence not to stop when asked or signaled to do so for a heavy vehicle because of the vehicle’s different by a VicRoads TSS officer or Police officer. handling, higher centre of gravity and performance. You must also pull into a weighbridge when directed by Police Drivers should always travel at a speed which is safe for or TSS officers or when signs direct you to do so. the conditions. Speed limits All heavy vehicles with pneumatic tyres must travel at speeds no greater than the speed displayed on a speed limit sign as well as complying with the following conditions: »» 40 km/h in a local traffic zone signed 40 km/h »» 50 km/h in a built-up area not otherwise signed »» 100 km/h in a 100 km/h zone »» 100 km/h in a 110 km/h zone. 19  Seatbelts On roads with a speed limit of less than 80km/h, if the In Victoria, drivers of heavy vehicles must wear a properly vehicle is not visible for 200 metres in all directions: adjusted and fastened seatbelt where one is fitted, or is »» one triangle must be placed 50-150 metres behind required by law to be fitted to the vehicle. the vehicle or fallen load, Passengers in trucks are also required to wear seatbelts. »» one triangle must be placed 50-150 metres in front Seatbelts must not be removed if already fitted. All vehicles of the vehicle or fallen load, and manufactured after 1 July 1977 are required to have seatbelts »» one triangle must be placed by the side of the vehicle fitted. or fallen load. As part of managing fatigue there is an exemption from wearing If the road is a one-way road or divided road (this does not seatbelts for two-up drivers in sleeping compartments. include a road with a painted median), three triangles are still Portable warning triangles needed but there is no requirement to place a triangle in front of the vehicle. This triangle should instead be placed between If you drive a heavy vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) the vehicle or fallen load and the triangle behind the vehicle. over 12 tonnes, you must carry three approved portable warning triangles in your vehicle at all times. If you have to stop your vehicle or if any part of your load falls onto the road (including the shoulder), three portable warning triangles must be placed on the road. Nine 38mm On roads with a speed limit of 80km/h or more, if the buttons vehicle is not visible for 300 metres in all directions: equally spaced »» one triangle must be placed 200-250 metres behind Warning triangles must comply with the Australian Standard AS 3790 the vehicle or fallen load, »» one triangle must be placed 200-250 metres in front of the vehicle or fallen load, and »» one triangle must be placed by the side of the vehicle or fallen load. 20  Chapter 2 – The Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) If your vehicle is wider than 2.2 metres and you stop on a Requirements to weigh your vehicle road or the shoulder of a road at night, you must have all Drivers must stop to allow their vehicles to be weighed and required clearance and side marker lights operating and checked when signalled to do so by Police or a VicRoads clearly visible for at least 200 metres in all directions. Transport Safety Services (TSS) officer. If your vehicle is less than 2.2 metres wide, you must use It is an offence to disobey traffic signs or hand signals parking lights, unless there is street lighting and your vehicle instructing you to enter a weighbridge. It is also an offence to is visible for 200 metres in all directions refuse to allow your vehicle to be weighed. You can be fined. Railway crossings Vehicles can be weighed at weighbridge locations or by If you are the driver of a bus that seats more than 12 adults portable equipment carried by VicRoads TSS officers. (including the driver) approaching an uncontrolled railway (See Chapter 11, “Dimensions and Load Limits” for weight limits) level crossing (without gates, booms, barriers, or twin red lights) you must: Parking »» stop the bus so that the nearest part of the bus is not Any time less than 3 metres and not more than 12 metres from Unless a parking sign says that long vehicles are allowed to the nearest rail of the railway park in an area, you must not park in a built-up area for more »» satisfy yourself that there is no train or light rail vehicle than one hour if your vehicle has a GVM over 4.5 tonnes or is on the track 7.5 metres long or longer, unless permitted by the local Council, or if you are engaged in dropping off or picking up goods. »» once reaching the crossing, proceed across in a If any parking sign limits parking to less than one hour, manner which avoids the need to change gears until you must obey that sign. the crossing has been completely cleared You must always be careful and try to park as far away »» leave the crossing as soon as you can do so safely. from the stream of traffic as possible. Special rules apply for vehicles transporting dangerous goods at railway level crossings. Check these rules with the Victorian WorkCover Authority (see page 11 for details). 21  What is the chain of responsibility? The chain of responsibility means that anybody – not just the driver – who has control in a transport operation can be held responsible for breaches of road laws and may be made legally liable. In other words, if you use road transport as part of your business, you share responsibility for ensuring breaches of road laws do not occur. So, if a breach of road transport law occurs due to your action, inaction or demands, you may be legally accountable. Put simply this means: Control = responsibility = legal liability. 22  Chapter 2 – The Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) Notes Test yourself questions (Answers to test yourself questions are upside down at the bottom of this page) 1. Drivers of heavy vehicles A. do not have to wear seatbelts B. must wear seatbelts if travelling more than 80 kms C. are required by law to wear seatbelts when fitted. 2. When driving a bus at a railway level crossing you must stop the bus A. at the nearest rail B. between 3-12 metres from the nearest rail C. between 10-20 metres from the nearest rail. ANSWERS 1C 2B 23  Chapter 3 - Fatigue management and National Driver Work Diary This chapter includes: »» Fatigue management »» What is a work diary for? »» What is a fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle? »» What do I record in the work diary? »» Hours of driving »» How do I record information in a work diary? »» Work and rest hours »» What is a base? »» What is work time? »» How long must I carry work diary records? »» What is local work? »» What if I’m working under a two-up arrangement? »» What is rest time? »» What if I’m driving a fatigue-regulated heavy »» Rules for counting work time vehicle or configuration under instruction? »» Periods less than 24 hours »» Where can I buy a work diary? »» 24 hour periods »» Can I apply for an exemption? »» Important notes »» Where can I get help with filling in a work diary? »» What if a driver doesn’t take the »» What if my work diary is lost, stolen or destroyed? legally required rest break? »» Periods of 7, 14 and 28 days »» Different time zones »» Work time is rounded up »» Rest time is rounded down »» National Driver Work Diary 24  Chapter 3 - Fatigue management and National Driver Work Diary Fatigue management The primary responsibility of professional drivers is Fatigue or ‘drowsy driving’ is a significant safety hazard for community safety. drivers. The main causes of ‘drowsy driving’ are too little The HVNL requires that drivers must not drive a fatigue- sleep, driving at times when you would normally be asleep regulated vehicle on a road while impaired by fatigue. and working or being awake for very long hours. Similarly, a party in the chain of responsibility for a fatigue- The HVNL covers all aspects of work relating to fatigue regulated heavy vehicle must take all reasonable steps to management for drivers of fatigue-regulated heavy vehicles ensure a driver does not drive the fatigue-regulated vehicle by setting limits for working hours and requiring you to record while impaired by fatigue. your work and rest times. The HVNL also provides outer limits for fatigue management Drivers may still feel fatigued even when complying with for drivers of fatigue-regulated heavy vehicles. national work and rest limits; therefore, heavy vehicle drivers The outer limits are designed to ensure the safe operation of have a general duty to manage their fatigue. Remember, a fatigue-regulated heavy vehicles; however, it is important to driver must not drive on the road while fatigued – penalties be aware that you can still be impaired by fatigue even when apply for breaching fatigue laws. operating within these outer limits. It is the general duty of all parties in the supply chain to take Regardless of how many hours you have worked or how all reasonable steps to prevent the fatigue of heavy vehicle much rest you have had, you must never drive if you are drivers. This is similar to occupational health and safety laws impaired by fatigue. and means that each person in the chain of responsibility The maximum hours of work and minimum hours of rest must take all reasonable steps to ensure that the driver of a under your work and rest hours option (for example, standard fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle does not drive on a road while hours) are outer limits only: impaired by fatigue or breach national heavy vehicle road »» you can have more rest than the minimum required transport laws relating to fatigue. hours of rest, and you can rest at any time »» you do not have to work the maximum hours of work. Importantly, work diaries used correctly can help ensure that drivers and parties in the chain of responsibility meet their safety and fatigue management obligations. 25  What is a fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle? Hours of driving National heavy vehicle driver reforms were introduced in 2008 There are four driving hour options available: to better manage driver fatigue. These laws apply to fatigue- 1. Standard hours regulated heavy vehicles. A fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle is: 2. Basic Fatigue Management (BFM) »» a vehicle with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) of more 3. Advanced Fatigue Management (AFM) than 12 tonnes 4. Operating under a work and rest hours exemption. »» a combination vehicle when the total of the GVM is more than 12 tonnes The HVNL requires that you count work time and rest time in a certain way. »» buses over 4.5 tonnes with a seating capacity of more than 12 adults (including the driver); however in Understanding the rules for counting time are essential for Victoria, a light bus with a GVM of 4.5 tonnes or less is you to manage work and rest times and assist other parties also included in the definition of the fatigue-regulated in the supply chain comply with their duties to manage work heavy vehicle and rest time and prevent driver fatigue. »» a truck, or a combination including a truck, with a GVM There are four working hours options for operating under of more than 12 tonnes with a machine or implement the fatigue management laws. attached to it. Standard hours specifies the maximum hours of work and Some heavy vehicles are not classed as fatigue-regulated minimum hours of rest that apply to all drivers who work heavy vehicles. These include trams, motor vehicles modified for operators who do not have accreditation for fatigue to primarily operate as a machine (agricultural machinery, management. That is, drivers of fatigue-regulated heavy bulldozers, tractors, etc.) and motor homes specifically vehicles must work to standard hours if the operator they modified for residential purposes (not just built with a work for does not hold BFM or AFM accreditation. sleeper berth). (Tables 1, 2 and 3) 26  Chapter 3 - Fatigue management and National Driver Work Diary Basic Fatigue Management (BFM) is for operators who require some flexibility in their drivers’ work and rest hours. To be eligible to operate under BFM, operators must be appropriately accredited under the National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme. (Tables 4 and 5) Advanced Fatigue Management (AFM) is for operators who are able to demonstrate accountability for managing driver fatigue risks. To be eligible to operate under AFM, operators must be appropriately accredited under the National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (NHVAS). For information on the NHVAS, please go to nhvr.gov.au (Table 6) Operating under a work and rest hours exemption - exemption hours are the maximum work times and minimum rest times that apply, for a set period, to the driver of a fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle who operates under a work and rest hours exemption, as stated in a Commonwealth Gazette notice or permit for the exemption. For more information visit vicroads.vic.gov.au and nhrv.gov.au 27  Table 1: Standard hours – solo drivers Table 2: Standard hours – solo drivers in The table below applies to solo drivers and sets out the bus/coach sector minimum rest and maximum work hours. The table below applies to solo drivers in the bus and coach sector only. Time Work Rest In any period of… A driver must not And must have the rest of that Time Work Rest work for more period off work with at least a than a maximum minimum rest break of… In any period of... A driver must not And must have the rest of that of… work for more period off work with at least a than a maximum minimum rest break of... 5½ hours 5¼ hours work 15 continuous minutes rest time of... time 5½ hours 5¼ hours work 15 continuous minutes rest time 8 hours 7½ hours work 30 minutes rest time in blocks of time time 15 continuous minutes 8 hours 7½ hours work 30 minutes rest time in blocks of 11 hours 10 hours work 60 minutes rest time in blocks of time 15 continuous minutes time 15 continuous minutes 11 hours 10 hours work 60 minutes rest time in blocks of 24 hours 12 hours work 7 continuous hours stationary time 15 continuous minutes time rest time* 24 hours 12 hours work 7 continuous hours stationary 7 days 72 hours work 24 continuous hours stationary time rest time* time rest time 7 days 6 x night rest breaks# 14 days 144 hours work 2 x night rest breaks# and time 2 x night rest breaks taken on 28 days 288 hours work 4 x 24 hours continuous hours consecutive days time stationary rest time *Stationary rest time is the time a driver spends out of a heavy vehicle or in an *Stationary rest time is the time a driver spends out of a heavy vehicle or in an approved sleeper berth of a stationary heavy vehicle. approved sleeper berth of a stationary heavy vehicle. # Night rest breaks are 7 continuous hours stationary rest time taken between # Night rest breaks are 7 continuous hours stationary rest time taken between the hours of 10pm on a day and 8am on the next day (using the time zone of the hours of 10pm on a day and 8am on the next day (using the time zone of the base of the driver) or a 24 continuous hours stationary rest break. the base of the driver) or a 24 continuous hours stationary rest break. 28  Chapter 3 - Fatigue management and National Driver Work Diary Table 3: Standard hours – two-up drivers Table 4: Basic Fatigue Management (BFM) The table below applies to two-up drivers. – solo drivers The table below applies to solo drivers under BFM. Time Work Rest In any period of... A driver must not And must have the rest of that Time Work Rest work for more period off work with at least a than a maximum minimum rest break of... In any period of… A driver must not And must have the rest of that of... work for more period off work with at least a than a maximum minimum rest break of… 5½ hours 5¼ hours work 15 continuous minutes rest time of… time 6¼ hours 6 hours work time 15 continuous minutes rest time 8 hours 7½ hours work 30 minutes rest time in blocks of time 15 continuous minutes 9 hours 8½ hours work 30 minutes rest time in blocks of time 15 continuous minutes 11 hours 10 hours work 60 minutes rest time in blocks of time 15 continuous minutes 12 hours 11 hours work 60 minutes rest time in blocks of time 15 continuous minutes 24 hours 12 hours work 5 continuous hours stationary rest time time* or 5 hours continuous rest 24 hours 14 hours work 7 continuous hours stationary time in an approved sleeper berth time rest time* while the vehicle is moving 7 days 36 hours long/ 52 hours 10 continuous hours stationary night work time% rest time 14 days 144 hours work 24 continuous hours stationary 7 days 60 hours work 24 continuous hours stationary time rest time taken after no more time rest time and 24 hours stationary than 84 hours work time and 24 rest time in blocks of at least 7 continuous hours stationary rest continuous hours of stationary time and 2 x night rest breaks# rest time and 2 x night rest breaks taken on consecutive days. 14 days 120 hours work 2 x night rest breaks# and time 2 x night rest breaks taken on *Stationary rest time is the time a driver spends out of a regulated heavy consecutive days vehicle or in an approved sleeper berth of a stationary regulated heavy vehicle. *Stationary rest time is the time a driver spends out of a heavy vehicle or in an approved sleeper berth of a stationary heavy vehicle. % Long/night work time is any work time in excess of 12 hours in a 24 hour period and any work time between midnight and 6 am (or the equivalent hours # Night rest breaks are 7 continuous hours stationary rest time taken between in the time zone of the base of a driver). the hours of 10pm on a day and 8am on the next day (using the time zone of the base of the driver) or a 24 continuous hours stationary rest break. # Night rest breaks are 7 continuous hours stationary rest time taken between the hours of 10pm on a day and 8am on the next day (using the time zone of the base of the driver) or a 24 continuous hours stationary rest break. 29  Table 5: B  asic Fatigue Management (BFM) – two-up drivers The table below applies to two-up drivers under BFM. Time Work Rest In any period of... A driver must not And must have the rest of that work for more period off work with at least a than a maximum minimum rest break of… of… 24 hours 14 hours work time 82 hours 10 continuous hours stationary rest time 7 days 70 hours work 24 continuous hours stationary time rest time and 24 hours stationary rest time in blocks of at least 7 continuous hours of stationary rest time 14 days 140 hours work 4 x 7 night rest breaks# time *Stationary rest time is the time a driver spends out of a regulated heavy vehicle or in an approved sleeper berth of a stationary regulated heavy vehicle. # Night rest breaks are 7 continuous hours stationary rest time taken between the hours of 10pm on a day and 8am on the next day (using the time zone of the base of the driver) or a 24 continuous hours stationary rest break. 30  Chapter 3 - Fatigue management and National Driver Work Diary Table 6: Advanced Fatigue Management (AFM) Parameter Normal operating limits Frequency for exceeding normal Outer limits operating limits Minimum break in a 24 hour Operator to propose Operator to propose 6 continuous hours or 8 hours in 2 parts period Minimum continuous 24 hour Operator to propose Operator to propose 4 periods in 28 days period free of work Minimum opportunity for night Operator to propose Operator to propose 2 periods in 14 days sleep (between 10pm and 8am) Maximum hours work in a 24 Operator to propose Operator to propose 16 hours (except New South Wales hour period and Victoria) Maximum work in 14 days Operator to propose Operator to propose 154 hours Maximum work in 28 days Operator to propose Operator to propose 288 hours Normal operating limits are used to guide operators when developing everyday schedules and driver rosters taking into account all foreseeable contingencies and reflecting the inherent fatigue risks (eg the amount of night driving balanced against longer rest breaks). Outer limits represent the point at which further work poses an unacceptable fatigue risk. The national outer limit of 16 hours cannot be exceeded. This limit is based on robust advice from fatigue experts, and experience from current transport industry practices. 31  What is work time? Rules for counting work time Work time includes all the tasks you do with the operation of The law requires that you count work time and rest time in a your fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle. Driving is obviously work certain way. time, but work time also includes tasks such as: Work time must be counted in 15 minute periods. A period of »» loading and unloading the vehicle work time of less than 15 minutes still counts as 15 minutes »» inspecting, servicing or repair work of work time. For example, 14 minutes of work time counts as 15 minutes; 17 minutes of work time counts as 30 minutes of »» attending to the load or to passengers (on a bus) work time; 53 minutes of work time counts as 60 minutes of »» cleaning or refueling the vehicle work time. »» instructing or supervising another person including Time is always counted from the end of a rest break. The law learning to drive a heavy vehicle, learning a new route, requires that: making deliveries etc. »» time periods are always counted forward from the end »» recording information or completing a document (for of a rest break example your work diary). »» time periods of 24 hours or longer must be counted What is local work? forward from the end of a ‘relevant major rest break’. This is work that relates to a journey where you will only drive This information will help you understand how to count work within a 100km radius of your base. (The base is the place and rest hours in different periods of time. from which you do work or the garage address.) Periods less than 24 hours What is rest time? Periods of less than 24 hours must be counted forward from Rest time is all time that is not work time. the end of any period of rest time. This method is used to ensure compliance with short rest break requirements (eg the standard hours solo driver requirement of not working more than seven hours 30 minutes in a period of eight hours). 32  Chapter 3 - Fatigue management and National Driver Work Diary 24-hour periods Important notes Periods of 24 hours must be counted forward from the end of You must count work time for the whole 24-hour period any major rest break. A major rest break means rest time of following the end of a relevant major rest break. If you take at least five continuous hours. another (subsequent) relevant major rest break during that When applied to a 24-hour period a ‘relevant major rest 24-hour period, it does not reset the 24-hour period, so you break’ is the longest continuous rest break required for your do not stop counting work time for that 24-hour period at hours option. You must start counting 24-hour periods from that break. You must count all work time before and after the the end of that break. subsequent relevant major rest break in that 24 hour period. For example, you must start counting 24-hour periods from: For example, if on a day you started working at 6am and worked: »» Standard hours solo – the end of a rest break of seven or more continuous hours »» 5¼ hrs (6–11.15am) then took a 15-minute break »» Standard hours two-up – the end of a rest break of five »» 2¼ hrs (11.30am–1.45pm) and took a 90-minute break or more continuous hours »» 4½ hrs (3.15–7.45pm) then took a seven-hour major »» Basic Fatigue Management (BFM) hours solo – the end rest break. of a rest break of seven or more continuous hours (or You have completed the maximum 12 hours work time in any at the end of a rest break of six continuous hours if a 24-hour period at 7.45pm and may not commence working ‘split rest break’ has been taken – that is, 6 continuous again until 6am on the next day because that is when the 24 hours of stationary rest time and 2 continuous hours of hour period you are counting finishes. stationary rest time) What if a driver doesn’t take the legally required »» BFM hours two-up – 24-hour periods can be counted forward from the end of any rest break because this rest break? option does not require a ‘major rest break’ in a 24- If you do not take the longest continuous rest break required, hour period the 24-hour period may be counted from the last major rest »» Advanced Fatigue Management (AFM) hours – the end break (at least 5 continuous hours). of a rest break of 6 or more continuous hours or the end of the required minimum continuous rest break as approved in your AFM operating limits. 33  Periods of 7, 14 and 28 days BFM hours solo drivers must calculate ‘long and night hours’ Periods of 7 days or longer can be counted forward from the according to the time zone of their base. end of any ‘relevant major rest break’. Work time is rounded up The relevant major rest break for a period of seven or more Work time limits are maximum limits, so work time is always days may be either: rounded up to the next 15-minute interval. For example: »» a 24 continuous hours rest period »» 2 minutes of work is counted as 15 minutes of »» a rest break of at least seven continuous hours of work time stationary rest time for two-up drivers »» 10 minutes work is counted as 15 minutes of »» a night rest break of seven continuous hours stationary work time rest time (taken between 10pm on a day and 8am on »» 40 minutes work is counted as 45 minutes of the next day) for drivers of buses and coaches. work time For example: »» 2 hours and 21 minutes work is counted as »» for a 24 continuous hours rest period, count forward 2 hours and 30 minutes of work time. from the end of a previous 24 continuous hours rest period Rest time is rounded down »» to check if you comply with night rest requirements, Rest time limits are minimum limits, so rest time is always count forward from the end of a previous night rest. rounded down to the last 15-minute interval. For example: Different time zones »» 12 minutes rest does not count as rest time. The law requires that all periods of time (work time and rest »» rest between 30 minutes and 44 minutes is counted time) must be counted in 15-minute blocks relative to the time as 30 minutes rest time zone of your base. So if you are based in Queensland and »» 6 hours and 40 minutes rest is counted as 6 hours and you drive into NSW during daylight savings time, you record 30 minutes of rest time. your work and rest hours in Queensland time. Drivers travelling outside their normal time zone should ensure that they schedule their ‘night rests’ according to the time zone of their base. 34  Chapter 3 - Fatigue management and National Driver Work Diary National Driver Work Diary What do I record in the work diary? All drivers of fatigue-regulated heavy vehicles who drive »» Drivers only have to record their vehicle registration 100km or more from their home base or operate under Basic once a day or if their vehicle changes, rather than at Fatigue Management or Advanced Fatigue Management every break. must complete a National Driver Work Diary to record their »» Drivers only have to record the location and odometer work and rest times. reading at the start of a rest break, unless the location In Victoria, fatigue-regulated heavy vehicles include light or odometer reading has changed during the break. buses i.e. buses with a GVM of 4.5 tonnes or less that seat »» Drivers only have to record their operator’s Basic more than 12 adults (including the driver). Fatigue Management (BFM) or Advanced Fatigue Management (AFM) accreditation number once in You are not required by law to obtain or complete a work the diary (or again if it changes), rather than on every diary if you always do local work (driving only within a 100km daily sheet. radius of your base) under standard hours. If you occasionally travel more than 100km from your base you must obtain a »» Solo drivers no longer have to record the state or work diary and record all the required details on any day in territory where their licence was issued. which you do the more than 100km work. »» A new optional comments section is also included to record information such as delays and notes made by What is a work diary for? authorised officers. »» A work diary is evidence that a driver’s work and rest hours are compliant with the law and that their How do I record information in a work diary? fatigue is being managed. The NHVR is responsible for You must follow the instructions in the front of your work diary administering the National Driver Work Diary. at all times. This includes using a blue or black ballpoint pen, writing legibly and using enough pressure so your entries are »» Most drivers of a fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle are clear on the last duplicate copy. You must start a new daily required by law to create a record of time spent working sheet every time you change work/rest options, change your (including driving time) and resting on a daily basis. base location or work for a different employer. »» Drivers are not allowed to drive or work more than the If you work for more than one employer on the same day, maximum work hours or rest less than the minimum you must supply all employers with a copy of the required rest hours in a certain period set out by law or information for that day. There are duplicate copies in the penalties apply. work diary for this purpose. 35  Detailed information on how to complete a work diary can be If your work changes and you no longer have to complete a found in the front of your work diary. work diary, you must still carry your work and rest records from the last 28 days in the vehicle. What is a base? The base of a heavy vehicle driver is the place from which What if I’m driving under a two-up arrangement? you normally work and receive instructions, but it can also be People can drive as solo drivers, or drive under a two-up the garage address of the vehicle if the vehicle is a fatigue- arrangement. Two-up driving means two people share the regulated heavy vehicle, or the location from which the driving task of a fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle fitted with business is operated, or another place such as a depot or an approved sleeper berth. Where a two-up arrangement is site. If you are a self-employed driver and an employed driver in place, each driver must complete and carry his/her own at different times, you may have one base as a self-employed work diary. The other driver to the arrangement must put driver and another base as an employed driver. the following details in each daily sheet of the other driver’s If you have two or more employers, you may have a different work diary: base in relation to each employer. »» his/her name and work diary page number How long must I carry work diary records? »» his/her driver licence number and the state/territory of issue You must keep a record of your work and rest hours and carry a work diary with you at all times if you are the driver of »» his/her driving hours options. a fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle and are: The other driver must sign each daily sheet verifying the »» driving 100 km or more from your home base, or have information they have given is true and correct. Each two- been in the last 28 days up driver is required to take a minimum continuous rest break of five hours in 24 hours, ensuring flexibility for driver »» working under Basic Fatigue Management (BFM) or changeovers. Advanced Fatigue Management (AFM) hours, or have been working under BFM or AFM in the last 28 days »» driving under a work/rest hours exemption, or have been in the last 28 days. 36  Chapter 3 - Fatigue management and National Driver Work Diary What if I’m driving a fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle Can I apply for an exemption? or combination vehicle under instruction? Heavy vehicle drivers operating under standard hours, who If you drive less than 100km you are not required to complete cannot make records in their work diary because of literacy a work diary, however, you and your supervising driver issues or a print disability may apply directly to the NHVR for must keep the appropriate records for your record keeper. a work diary exemption (permit). If you drive more than 100km from your home base, you To apply for this permit, the driver must be able to substantiate and your supervising driver must both complete and carry a their literacy issues or print disability (eg, through a medical work diary. This is also the case when you are driving under certificate) and nominate an assistant to help them complete instruction and working under BFM, AFM or an exemption. their work diary at a suitable time. The supervising driver is deemed to always be in control of Where can I get help with filling in a work diary? the operation of the vehicle, either while actually driving or while giving instruction or supervision to the learner driver. Your employer or more experienced drivers may be able to help you fill out a work diary for the first time. You can also When driving under this arrangement all work time will be contact the NHVR for more advice on filling out a work diary. recorded as solo driving hours. You may not drive under a two-up arrangement when one driver is under instruction. What if my work diary is lost, stolen or destroyed? Where can I buy a work diary? A supplementary work diary record must be used if your work diary is lost, stolen or destroyed. You must notify the The National Driver Work Diary is on sale at VicRoads NHVR within two (2) business days. Customer Service Centres, for locations visit vicroads.vic.gov.au You can only record in a supplementary record for a maximum of seven (7) days. After that period, you must use the formal work diary. A supplementary record must be treated the same way as your work diary. You must keep a copy of all supplementary records with you in the vehicle for 28 days after it is made and give a copy to your record keeper within 21 days. 37  Work diary sample page For more information on work diaries, please contact the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (see inside Front Cover) 38  Chapter 3 - Fatigue management and National Driver Work Diary Notes Test yourself questions (Answers to test yourself questions are upside down at the bottom of this page) 1. When driving at Standard Hours you are required to fill in a work diary A. only if you are carrying goods B. if you are driving a fatigue regulated heavy vehicle on a journey that will take you more than 100 km from your driver base C. on all trips in a heavy vehicle 2. Regardless of how many hours you have worked or how much rest you have had, if you are impaired by fatigue, you can A. drive to a convenient place to rest B. not drive at all C. finish your journey and then have a long rest ANSWERS 1B 2B 39  Chapter 4 – Ready to drive: driver health and safety Alertness This chapter includes: Driving a heavy vehicle is hard work, and driving a heavy vehicle for long »» Alertness hours is tiring. There are many things that good drivers do to prevent »» Preventing fatigue becoming fatigued. »» Overcoming fatigue Preventing fatigue »» Alcohol The best way to be alert and avoid dozing at the wheel is to not become »» Other drugs tired in the first place. Here are some suggestions. »» Seating 1. Get plenty of sleep »» Occupational safety Starting a long trip if you are already tired is inviting trouble. If you have a »» Test yourself questions long trip to make, be sure that you get a good night’s sleep before you start. 2. Timing your trip Your body gets used to sleeping during certain hours. If you drive during these hours, you will be tired. Try to make long trips during the hours when you would normally be awake. 3. Avoid medicines Some medicines may cause drowsiness. Those that can cause drowsiness have labels on them warning against operating vehicles or machinery. Always ask your chemist about possible effects on driving while on medication, whether the medication is prescribed by your doctor or bought over the counter. Common medicines that may cause drowsiness include cold tablets, hayfever and allergy medicines. If you have to drive while you have a cold, hay fever or allergy, it is much safer to drive with these symptoms than to take medicines which will cause drowsiness at the wheel. 40  Chapter 4 – Ready to drive: driver health and safety 4. Keep cool Do not eat starchy foods (eg bread, pasta, potatoes, pies, A hot, stuffy cabin can make you sleepy. Depending on the chips) while you are on a long trip. weather, keep the window open to get some fresh air while Do not eat a heavy meal before you begin driving because driving, or use the fan, air vents or air conditioner. Make big meals will make you tired. sure that fresh air is entering the cabin and you are not just Eat small meals. You can eat small meals more often to help circulating air from within the cabin. keep you alert. 5. Take breaks Overcoming fatigue Short breaks keep you alert. Take them before you Driving while tired is a major cause of fatal crashes. Fatigue is become tired. a factor in up to 60% of all heavy vehicle crashes. 6. Stop often Here are some important rules to follow. Walk around and inspect the vehicle. It also helps to do some simple physical exercises such as running on the spot, 1. Stop to sleep touching your toes or knee-bends. When your body needs sleep, sleep is the only thing that will work. If you are planning to make a stop during your trip, make 7. Change routes it whenever you get tired, even if it is before you planned. Try not to travel the same route all the time. Travelling the same You can keep to your plan by getting up a little earlier the next way all the time causes boredom and makes you drowsy. day. This reduces the danger of driving while you are tired. 8. Keep your mind on the road Remember the regulations about driving hours as set out in You can also do many things to keep your mind alert, like counting Chapter 3. interstate cars or noting landmarks as you approach them. 2. Take a nap Invent your own ways of keeping your mind on the road and If you cannot stop for the night, at least pull off the road and on the job. take a nap. A short nap for thirty minutes will do more to 9. Watch your food overcome fatigue than a thirty minute coffee stop. You’ll feel more alert, rested and able to keep your mind on your driving Fresh fruit and vegetables are much better for you at any and the road. time. Eating these foods on a trip will stop you from being tired after a meal. 41  3. Ventilation Other drugs Make sure you have fresh air in your cabin at all times. In cold Beware of drugs that have not been prescribed by a doctor. weather, use the heater but make sure fresh air is coming in If you really need to take medicines that are not prescribed, from outside the vehicle. Do not have stale air re-circulating in you should ask your chemist about what effect they will have your vehicle. on your driving. Alcohol Any drug you take will affect you. The effects of alcohol on driving performance are well known. Any combination of drugs, or a combination of drugs with It is an offence to exceed the legally prescribed limit whilst alcohol, will affect you much worse than any one taken driving a large vehicle in Victoria. separately. Be very careful and check with your doctor or chemist for what is safe for a long distance driver. You must have a zero Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) at all times if you are the driver of: Police have the power to undertake roadside saliva testing of drivers and riders, to detect the presence of: »» any bus »» any rigid or articulated truck over 15 tonnes GVM »» speed (methamphetamine) »» a heavy vehicle with Driver Under Instruction plates »» cannabis (THC) because you are learning. »» ecstasy (MDMA). The effects of alcohol take a long time to wear off. If you drink  riving with these drugs in the blood or saliva is an offence D alcohol the night before, you may be over the legal limit the and penalties (including licence loss) will apply. next morning. It is best not to drink at all on the night before Avoid drugs driving, or have only one or two drinks many hours before driving. There are no known drugs that can overcome fatigue. Some substances may keep you awake for a while, but will Avoid alcohol not make you alert. Later on, you may be even more tired Alcohol makes you tired and more likely to have a crash. than if you had not taken them at all! Water is good for you. Tea or coffee is better for you than Sleep is the only thing that can overcome fatigue, so stop sugar-laden soft drinks. and sleep as soon as you are tired. 42  Chapter 4 – Ready to drive: driver health and safety Seating Occupational safety Adjusting the driving seat is very important for drivers. You are responsible for making sure that your working If you a