Are the Days of Log Books Checks Coming to An End?

Well the NTC CEO, Paul Retter seems to think so. Speaking at Trucking Australia, Retter voiced his belief that the days of roadside log book checks are “numbered”.

According to Retter, technology provides a much better opportunity for compliance than the current road side log book checking system. Technologies such as electronic work diaries are the way forward, offering efficiency and more effectiveness. He explained:

“Quite frankly the days of road side enforcement are numbered if you believe in the use of technologies like electronic work diaries and the like,” he said.

“Because quite frankly a much more efficient and effective way of ensuring that we detect systemic breaches of our laws is to actually have that sort of work done behind closed doors in the back room talking to the provider who is providing the access to the data and not men in blue or enforcement officers standing on the road.

Read more: http://www.bigrigs.com.au

Mr Retter explained that using technology to keep track of compliance was the next logical step especially because it provided an opportunity to hold the real offenders accountable and deal more lightly with those who aren’t repeat offenders. Retter stated:

“Inevitably that’s where we’re going to go, that will result, in my view, in us picking up the people that deserve to be picked up, the ones who are making regular breaches of the law part of their business operation, and deal with them and allow those people who make the odd small mistake or oversight go through … who cares.

Source: http://www.bigrigs.com.au

According to Retter, both he and NHVR head Sal Petroccitto were working towards a culture change regarding the issue of compliance and enforcement, one that would focus more on a technological approach. Mr Retter explained:

“That’s where we need to head, Sal (Petroccitto) and I have discussed this and we’re doing all that we can to ensure that there is going to be a change in culture and approach to the issue of compliance and enforcement as part of the take up of technology.”

Read more: http://www.bigrigs.com.au

Retter stated that telematics and EWDs provided more “regulatory efficiency and an improved approach” to compliance and enforcement, and that technology in general would help the industry on multiple levels.

Mr Retter also highlighted the important role government would need to play in transitioning to the more technological approach. Government would not only need to facilitate the change but also manage the risks associated with the change, according to Retter.

Mr Retter concluded by reaffirming his dedication to ensuring this approach was ushered in as seamlessly as possible.

He stated:

“Government’s role is to facilitate the take-up of technology where possible, while appropriately managing the risks associated with that,” he said.

“My question is, ‘What is the appropriate response by Government as we go down this inevitable road?’ It doesn’t necessarily have to be a heavy-handed approach to regulation.

“My aim is to facilitate the take-up of this technology as seamlessly as possible, wherever we can.”

Source: http://www.motoring.com.au