New guide aims to cut deaths and injury in high-risk public works jobs

In an effort to reduce injuries and fatalities caused by driver fatigue, Pro-Visual Publishing is reminding local government and works officers of the National Heavy Vehicle Driver Fatigue reforms with the 2010 edition of the National Guide to Public Works & Services Safety.

The new laws, which took effect on 29 September 2008, are consistent with current obligations under OHS laws that require employers and employees to take all reasonably practicable steps to manage driver fatigue.

The safety guide, which will be distributed in the coming weeks, explores the reasons for the new laws and details how heavy vehicle drivers and their employees can avoid breeching them.

The Institute of Public Works Engineering Australia (IPWEA), which assists in the development of the guide, believes it is a practical health and safety resource chart for members of the public works sector.

“The guide provides managers and employees with up-to-date information, including driver fatigue, underground electrical safety and asbestos in the workplace,” said Mark Turner from the IPWEA NSW Division.

As well as aiming to improve the management of fatigue and speed across the heavy-vehicle industry, the guide also features the topics of underground electrical safety and how to avoid exposure to asbestos.

The guide will be distributed free of charge to heavy-vehicle haulage companies and transport services across Australia. Additional copies are available and all guides are produced and distributed without cost.

For further information, or to obtain additional copies of the chart, please call (02) 8272 2611, email enquiries@provisual.com.au or see www.provisual.com.au.