Heavy Vehicle Fatigue Management

Andrew Burdett gave a thorough account of the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) Fatigue Management program at Burdett’s during the CMPA webinar held 20 March 2025.

NHVR – Key Facts
What is the NHVR?
The NHVR is an Australian government agency responsible for regulating heavy vehicles to improve safety and productivity in the transport industry.

Why is Fatigue Management Important?
Driver fatigue is a leading cause of road incidents, particularly in the heavy vehicle industry. Managing fatigue is essential to ensuring road safety
and reducing accidents and injuries.

The Impact of Fatigue on Drivers

Physical and Cognitive Impairment:

• Fatigue reduces reaction times, alertness, decision making, and coordination.
• It can lead to sleepiness, lack of concentration, and poor judgment.

Consequences of Fatigue:

• Increased risk of accidents, including rollovers, head-on collisions, and rear-end crashes.
• Potential for serious injury or fatality for both drivers and others on the road.

NHVR Fatigue Management Framework
Regulations and Codes of Practice:

• NHVR enforces fatigue management regulations through the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL).
• Codes of Practice provide guidance on fatigue management for operators, drivers, and other stakeholders.

Fatigue Management Options:

• Basic Fatigue Management (BFM):
• Basic approach requiring drivers to adhere to standard work and rest hours plus the extra 2 hours work time under BFM

Advanced Fatigue Management (AFM):

• More flexible, tailored approach where operators and drivers can develop their own schedules based on data-driven methods and fatigue risk assessments.

Key Elements of Fatigue Management Procedures

1. Driver Scheduling:
   Adequate scheduling that accounts for rest breaks and sufficient recovery time.
2. Fatigue Monitoring:
   Use of devices and technologies (e.g., fatigue detection systems, GPS tracking) to monitor driver alertness. – AI Cameras Electronic Work
   Diaries (EWD)
3. Training and Education:
   Educating drivers about recognising signs of fatigue and managing their own well-being at home and during shifts.
4. Record-Keeping:
   Operators must maintain accurate records of driving hours, rest periods, and any relevant changes to the driving schedule (EWD).

For further information visit https://www.nhvr.gov.au/safety-accreditation-compliance/fatigue-management

Implementing Fatigue Management Systems

How to implement BFM or ADM:

1. Assess current practices and identify gaps in fatigue management.
2. Select either Basic or Advanced Fatigue Management based on operational needs.
3. Ensure drivers are trained in fatigue management procedures.
4. Allocations team are BFM accredited so is transport management team
5. Allocations team are able to access EWD info to also coach drivers if need be
6. Regularly review fatigue management systems and make necessary improvements. With Driver input

Technology Integration:

1. Use of telematics, GPS tracking, and driver fatigue detection systems to ensure compliance and monitor driver health Annual BFM medical over 50 years 3 years under 50 .
2. Hub fleet EWD send alerts for non-conformance

Auditing and Compliance:

1. Regular audits ensure that procedures are followed and compliance with NHVR regulations is maintained 2 year NHVR external and quarterly internal Audits.

Benefits of good Fatigue Management Systems

Improved Road Safety:
Proper fatigue management reduces accidents caused by tiredness or impaired alertness.
Increased Productivity:
Well-rested drivers are more efficient and capable of working longer without risk.
Reduced Legal and Financial Risks:
Compliance with NHVR regulations can help reduce the risk of legal action, fines, penalties and insurance premiums
Better Driver Health and Well-being:
Prevents long-term health issues associated with fatigue, such as sleep disorders and stress

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