VicRoads Undertakes Operation Trishula

As Operation Austrans came to a close, Victorian Road Authorities commenced Operation Trishula.

The safety and compliance operation coincided with an on-road tolerance and safe-driving campaign (Travel Happy – Share the Road).

During the operation, officers from VicRoads inspected trucks and heavy vehicles across Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs. The operation’s focus was on un-roadworthy and non-compliant vehicles.

Speaking about the latest operation, VicRoads regulatory services director Eric Henderson said Operation Trishula was the second operation in a series of heavy vehicle inspection programs that will be rolled out across the state during the course of the year. He explained the responsibility of all road-users towards road safety,

“As part of Operation Trishula, VicRoads officers will be working with Victoria Police and WorkSafe teams to inspect vehicles,” Henderson says.  

“Truck drivers and the owners of heavy vehicles have an obligation to ensure they are safe.

“Too much is at risk if they are not. “If heavy vehicles have inadequate brakes, are overloaded or drivers are working excessive hours – as well as other potential problems – you’re putting other road users, yourself, your family and livelihood at risk.

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

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Mr Henderson also explained that as an important part of the state’s economy, it was vital to ensure that all heavy vehicles are safe – the safety of the community depends on it.

The article on Fullyloaded.com.au also reminds readers that Operation Trishula coincides with VicRoads’ Travel Happy – Share the Road campaign, a campaign aimed at encouraging greater tolerance and respect on the road.

Drivers need to consider other road users and the consequences of their actions on the road. Non truck drivers need to understand trucks better, the article went on to state,

“Truck drivers and other road users must give each space and consider how their actions affect other road users,” Henderson says.  

“A truck’s blind spots make cars and motorbikes invisible to the driver, so if you can’t see the driver in the mirror, they can’t see you.

“Also, trucks need significantly more time to stop than other road users so if you’re passing one don’t cut the gap they need to stop safely.

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

He also reminded truck drivers of their responsibilities and the fact that they can make it easier for other road users by not tailgating or intimidating them.

Austrans in South Australia

Operation Austrans in South Australia discovered 4 defective trucks in one day of its operations. One of the trucks had no speedometer. All drivers were tested for drugs and alcohol during the operations on the South Eastern Freeway at Leawood Gardens.

Officers discovered 5 drivers with work diary offences, insecure loads and registration label offences. Altogether 21 drivers were tested, none of them tested positive for drugs or alcohol. The Operation ended on Saturday 6 June.