The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator has just released an update of Vehicle Standards Guide 17 (VSG-17) which provides the current position of the NHVR regarding the implementation of tip truck hoisting system requirements as detailed in AS1418.8 Part 4.
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator makes two points that we will need to consider. The first is that the document says it believes that there is confusion regarding the best way to achieve compliance amongst tipping body manufacturers. It is worth noting that this standard has been around since 1989, so it does seem odd that there is confusion. Having said that, I can say none of the tipping body manufacturers that have called me have known that AS1418.8 existed prior to speaking with me.
Regardless of the level of acknowledgment of AS1418.8, the fact is that we are moving in the right direction, albeit a little slower than anticipated. The second point is that the NHVR are proposing a two-stage approach that requires the development of a new code covering the design of tipping bodies. The development of this code will be led by the Heavy Vehicle Industry of Australia body.
Please have a read of the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator's Vehicle Standards Guide for yourself. In the absence of an outline of what compliance looks like, I recommend that you continue to use
Plant Assessor to manage compliance for your tipping bodies.
Finally, we spoke with the NHVR the day before this document was released, they advised us that we would be consulted as part of their recommended solution. If you have any questions of feedback, please send it through to the team at Plant Assessor.
Disclaimer: This information is intended to provide general information on the subject matter. This is not intended as legal or expert advice for your specific situation. You should seek professional advice before acting or relying on the content of this information.
