Hino sharpens emergency response

A Hino 700 Series truck is delivering advanced communications capabilities for Australia's National Safety Agency

Fast and efficient communication plays a vital role in the management of any large-scale emergency, and that exactly where the National Safety Agency's Emergency Services Integrated Communications (ESIC) vehicle makes a difference.

Based on a Hino 700 Series truck, the vehicle is officially classified as a prototype but it's already being used in the field in real emergencies.

In partnership with the broadband-enabled Innovation Program, the Victorian Fire Services Commissioner and other Victorian Government departments, the truck has been designed to assist in a range of incidents.

In use now for two years, the truck is fitted with a generator behind its cabin plus a comprehensive array of communications equipment and emergency lighting. The truck provides high-capacity broadband, giving emergency services and command personnel access to up-to-date information can potentially save lives, infrastructure and livestock during situations spanning fire, floods and terrorist attack, among others.

According to the Chairman and President of the National Safety Agency, Des Bahr, the Hino 700 Series truck was selected as a base for the platform for a variety of reasons.

"After comparing a number of different trucks on the market we found the Hino had the features we wanted and the right chassis for the best price," he said.

"We also wanted a vehicle we could use globally as we needed to ensure the prime mover was readily available where potential customers are located, without requiring modifications, such as those from the Middle East and Asia.

"It's towing capacity is excellent, as is the 18-speed transmission. Other factors in our purchasing decision included the excellent standard safety features, resale value, performance, economy, warranty and the reputation of the Hino brand.

"And we've found that Hino's ability to provide after-sales support around the clock is excellent. The service has been exceptional."

Mr Bahr said the truck has already been subjected to some testing conditions.

"We've driven the truck in some extreme temperatures and found the air conditioning works well – the truck hasn't missed a beat," he said.

Although it's classed as a prototype, the truck is already getting plenty of use – it was deployed to help manage the fire at Victoria's Hazelwood power station and coal mine in February 2014.

"The ESIC vehicle assisted by providing a range of expanded communications, including satellite and wi-fi, and enabled real-time intelligence sharing between the incident control team at the power station to the state control centre," Mr Bahr said.

"It provided services that were not available prior to its deployment, and we received positive feedback from the agencies that experienced the benefits provided by the ESIC vehicle."

Hino sharpens emergency response

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