ATA chief engineer Bob Woodward said the side underrun procedure was reviewed in response to industry demand and updated to include content relating to rigid trucks and prime movers.
“Side underrun protection devices reduce the chance of a cyclist or pedestrian falling under the wheels of a truck. They are already a requirement for construction trucks involved in the Melbourne Metro project and will be required more and more,” Mr Woodward said.
“The procedure explains how to design and install this essential safety equipment and includes guidance about how to fit the devices to prime movers and rigid trucks – including construction trucks,” he said.
The review working group consisted of members of the ATA’s Industry Technical Council (ITC), representing various parties in the supply chain: Phil Webb (formerly PACCAR Australia), Scott Grimme (Fiberglass Transport Equipment), Greg Brown (MaxiTRANS), Brent Fuge, (CMV Truck and Bus), Dennis Roohan (AJM Transport) and Lyndon Watson (Don Watson Transport).
“The process included reviewing European regulation R73 and then processing the requirements into a workable document that meets Australian operations and conditions,” Mr Woodward said.
“Once completed, the procedure was evaluated by our ITC, a committee that works to enhance the trucking industry’s safety, professionalism and viability by providing technical input and best practice advice to the ATA. The process also included a peer review before final approval by the ATA general council.
“The ITC brings operators, suppliers, engineers and industry specialists together in a long-term discussion forum, and is always open to new members,” he said.
At the ATA’s Technology and Maintenance Conference held earlier this month, members of the working group provided an insight into the new edition, working through the guide and discussing what is needed meet construction truck contract requirements or manage fleets that use urban roads.
The ATA and its member associations collectively represent the 50,000 businesses and 200,000 people in the Australian trucking industry. Together, we are committed to safety, professionalism and viability.
For more information about the ATA Industry Technical Council or to join, head here.
