HVIA slams PBS approvals process
The representative body has lambasted the NHVR for the "dire" state of Performance Based Standards applicationsThe Heavy Vehicle Industry Association (HVIA) has opened fire on the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) over ongoing operational issues with the Performance Based Standards (PBS) application process.
System in crisis
According to the HVIA's Chief Executive, Todd Hacking (pictured, below), the PBS approvals system is in crisis, forcing the HVIA to go public with its plea for a solution after months of behind-the-scenes communications.
"The situation is now dire," Mr Hacking said.
"HVIA has been trying to help the NHVR behind the scenes but the time has come to make our concerns public.
"Vehicle standards related functions like PBS are under-resourced across all levels of Government but the PBS situation is out of control.
"Applications go missing, consultation is limited, response timeframes are not being met and when our members try and find out what is going on, they are lucky to get a reply.
"Personally, I am grateful to the NHVR for the ongoing service I have received, but sadly this is not the reality for HVIA members.
"Whether they are trailer manufacturers, assessors, or certifiers, their pleas are all too often ignored, or given the run-around; the lack of empathy and communication is beyond frustrating."
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Cascading costs
Mr Hacking said the operational inefficiencies were costing HVIA members significant amounts of money.
"Everyone is hurting; operators tell me the cost is about $50,000 a month," he said.
"Some trailer manufacturers are not getting paid, so they are withholding payments to their service providers – it hurts the entire PBS supply chain.
"Had the NHVR acted and applied additional resources when we told them last November, we would not be in this disastrous situation now.
"The industry is busy – blind Freddy could tell you that – we all want PBS to work; we are invested in the system, but this will quickly kill off the scheme if a solution is not found now, and implemented tomorrow – six to 12 months' time is simply unacceptable.
Communication the key
"Our members need accurate, detailed, empathetic communication on when they will get their Vehicle Approval and any issues that need to be resolved," said Mr Hacking.
"This would help manage expectations, but this needs to start today!"
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