The NSW Environment Protection Authority says a key heavy vehicle road safety initiative has now been extended to all dangerous goods tank trailers.
After previously only being compulsory in new tank trailers, the EPA now requires all tank trailers carrying dangerous goods to be fitted with a roll stability system.
The requirement applied from 1 January 2019.
Steve Beaman from the EPA said the requirement is the completion of a five-year implementation period for existing vehicles, while applying to new vehicles since 2014.
“This critical initiative will assist in making NSW roads safer, protect the environment from hazardous material spills and potentially save lives,” Mr Beaman said.
Roll-over control is an electronic system that automatically reduces vehicle speed when sensors detect wheel speed is producing a high risk of a vehicle rolling over.
The safety initiative follows recommendations by the NSW Coroner after a fatal tanker accident in 2009 at East Lynne on the south coast. It also follows a serious accident in 2013 at Mona Vale on Sydney’s northern beaches.
In both crashes the vehicles rolled and leaked fuel, and six people died.
“The safe transportation of dangerous goods is a very serious matter and the reforms were introduced as a consequence of fatalities involving heavy vehicles,” Mr Beaman said.
National Bulk Tanker Association Executive Director Rob Perkins welcomed the extension to all vehicles.
“New South Wales has shown real leadership in ensuring this very important safety measure protects vehicles from roll-over,” Mr Perkins said.
“This undoubtedly contributes to improved safety for all road users in NSW.”
Compliance checks will be carried out to ensure tank trailers carrying dangerous goods using NSW roads have fitted the roll-over control system. On-the-spot fines of up to $4,000 may apply for non-compliance.
The NSW EPA acknowledge industry and community assistance and cooperation in the implementation of this important initiative.
