Electronic work diaries get the nod

Australian Truck Drivers may no longer have to fill out the old paper logbook following news that applications for approval for Electronic Work Diaries (EWDs) are being accepted by the NHVR from May 28, following the release of the final consultation report last week.

However, the news has been met with mixed reactions by transport operators with many smaller operators sceptical of system.

Major fleets have been pushing for EWDs for some time to streamline their compliance operations, however many smaller operators aren’t convinced that EWDs are the answer to monitoring fatigue and see them as further means of revenue raising.

NHVR Productivity and Safety Executive Director Geoff Casey said the Regulator was satisfied Electronic Work Diaries (EWDs) would provide a sustainable and effective voluntary alternative to written work diaries that have been the mainstay of recording work and rest hours for heavy vehicle drivers for more than half a century.

“There are more than 200,000 written work diaries purchased every year, including many by drivers who are already using electronic systems to assist in managing their work and rest hours,” Mr Casey said.

“I’d like to thank all the operators and organisations that took the time to provide feedback during the consultation period earlier this year.”

“After reviewing the feedback I am satisfied that the issues raised have or will be addressed and the development of EWDs as a voluntary option for drivers can begin.

“From next month, we will be in a position to start receiving and assessing applications for approval from technology providers and transport operators who have advised their intention to develop an EWD. I’d expect to see EWD products available for drivers in the coming months.”

During the consultation period between December and February the NHVR received 25 submissions.

In the Notice of Final Rule Making 1702 released last week, the NHVR clarified how operators would be treated fairly whether using written work diaries or EWDs, including outlining that drivers can make manual entries at any time prior to accepting the information at the end of their work day.

The NHVR will review candidate systems against the EWD Standards and a list of EWDs that have been approved will be available on the NHVR website.

Mr Casey informed the NHVR had also agreed to waive any regulatory fees for companies or individuals submitting candidate systems for approval.

“We’ve also been working closely with authorised officers and police to inform them of the type of information they’ll see under the EWD Compliance View,” Mr Casey said.

Click here for further information on EWDs or to view the Notice of Final Rule Making.