Consistently measuring and weighing special purpose vehicles

Thursday, 17 September 2020

Austroads has published a guideline for measuring and weighing special purpose vehicles (SPV) in Australia and New Zealand.

SPVs, also known as mobile plant in New Zealand, are large vehicles built for a purpose other than carrying goods, including a mobile cranes, concrete pumps or drill rigs.

These vehicles are measured and weighed differently in different jurisdictions.

Consequently, SPV operators crossing state borders require additional supervised measuring and weighing after their initial registration which increases complexity, costs and timeframes.

Inconsistent determinations between jurisdictions can lead to uncertainty for operators and access decision makers.

Austroads commissioned research to determine how SPVs are measured and weighed prior to registration in Australia and New Zealand.

The research team then led field trials to support the development of a practical guideline for performing supervised measuring and weighing for use throughout Australasia. The procedures can be used prior to registration and for access.

“By ensuring broad adherence to a uniform procedure, the road infrastructure will not be consumed at an increased rate, and the risk of damage will be reduced,” said Richard Delplace, Transport Network Operations Program Manager.

“Additionally, the complexity and timeframes for operators seeking permits will be reduced and the playing field will be levelled for non-compliant operators, leading to increased safety for the public”, Richard said.

Download: Harmonisation of Measurement and Mass Assessment Procedures for Special Purpose Vehicles in Australasia

Join us for a webinar on Thursday 5 November from 1:00–2:00pm AEDT, presented by Project Manager and NHVR Senior Safety Standards Advisor Richard Jakimowicz and Advantia Senior consultant Saizo Takeushi. This webinar will present the set of harmonised procedures and the example supervised measuring and weighing form developed by the project.

No charge but registration is essential.

Register now

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