The NHVR has announced it has released a new vehicle standards bulletin that has resulted in the implementation of a new tipper body design code.
The new NHVR Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 (VSB6), Version 3.2 to give it its full name was released on 1 July, and has seen the implementation of the J4 tipper body design code.
The Regulator says that an initial three-month period was provided for tipper bodies to be certified under the new requirements to provide time for modifications which were already underway, and allow industry to adjust to the new standards. The NHVR said that it will now extend the transitional arrangements for the implementation of the new design code to 1 February 2024, following further review and consultation.
Modification code J4 sits within the requirements of the Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 and provides design requirements for modification of a vehicle by fitting a tipper body. The NHVR says it provides a practical modification code that should allow tippers to both operate safely on the road while also allowing them to perform their required tipping functions. The design requirements have been developed to ensure vehicles operate safely on road while meeting minimum safety standards for the tipping system.
NHVR’s CEO Sal Petroccitto, said the extension follows discussions with Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA) and Approved Vehicle Examiners (AVEs), with the NHVR considering it appropriate to extend the certification period a further four months.
“The extension to February 2024 will provide additional time for AVEs to become accredited by their jurisdiction’s accreditation scheme, familiarise themselves with the updated code, and allow tipper body manufacturers to make the necessary changes to their designs,” said Petroccitto.
“It will also allow the NHVR to work with industry to address any queries relating to the new code and VSB6 Version 3.2 in general.”
HVIA chief executive officer, Todd Hacking said he wanted to recognise the NHVR for its willingness to engage with HVIA, its members and other affected parties to recognise the issues that are at play.
“The intention of these Standards is to ensure that Australia’s heavy vehicle fleet is both safe and productive, and we support their ongoing improvement,” Hacking said.
“We will work closely with the NHVR team and other stakeholders towards ensuring there is adequate capacity and resourcing to allow the updates to succeed when the transition period finishes next February.”
Sal Petroccitto said the NHVR understands that some vehicle modifications are complex changes and require extensive design and work to complete.
“We are asking owners and modifiers that require the extension to February 2024, to apply to the NHVR for the extension so that we can monitor how industry is progressing as well as target any future communications.”
To apply to for an extension of the implementation of the J4 tipper body design code, please email vehiclestandards@nhvr.gov.au with your request including your name and business name and estimated number of tipper body certifications over this period.