The Chain of Responsibility (CoR) was introduced under the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) to ensure all parties in the road transport supply chain share responsibility for safety. Developed to prevent breaches by involving every participant, from employers to contractors, CoR integrates safety throughout the supply chain, aiming to reduce risks and improve road safety.
If your operations involve heavy vehicles over 4.5 tonnes, ensuring the safety of drivers and other road users isn’t just a priority—it’s a legal obligation. On October 1, 2018, NHVR enacted a significant amendment to the National Heavy Vehicle Law (NHVL). This amendment extends responsibility across the entire transport supply chain. Now, everyone involved—management, consignors, dispatchers, contractors, and drivers—must prioritise safety and NHVR holds them accountable for the safety of transport activities.
CoR emphasises shared accountability. It holds every party responsible for mitigating risks in heavy vehicle operations. This approach leads to safer work environments, fewer road accidents, and alignment with work health and safety laws. Non-compliance can result in severe penalties, underlining the necessity of adherence.
Practice Guidelines
To comply with CoR, businesses must:
- Identify Risks: Recognize risks linked to their transport activities.
- Implement Control Measures: Establish policies for risk management, including safe loading practices and regular vehicle maintenance.
- Provide Training: Ensure all staff are well-trained in CoR obligations and safety practices.
- Monitor Compliance: Regularly review and update policies and procedures for ongoing HVNL compliance.
- Document: Keep detailed records of risk assessments, training, and compliance activities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who is responsible under CoR? All supply chain parties, including operators, schedulers, consignors, consignees, loaders, and packers, share responsibility.
- What are the penalties for non-compliance? Penalties range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity and negligence involved.
- How can businesses ensure compliance? Implementing a robust compliance program, conducting regular audits, and providing continuous training are essential steps.
- What is the primary duty under CoR? The primary duty is to ensure, as far as reasonably practicable, the safety of all transport activities by managing risks and preventing HVNL breaches.
The Chain of Responsibility is a cornerstone of safety in the Australian trucking industry, mandating that all participants in the supply chain are accountable for safety and compliance. By following best practices and fulfilling CoR obligations, businesses not only avoid penalties but also contribute to safer roads and a more dependable transport industry.
