The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has begun the final stages of its review before registration of the Forestry Log Haulage Code of Practice (LHC) and on Wednesday began a 28-day public consultation period. Source: Timberbiz
Across a three-year process, the Australian Forest Products Association developed the LHC to support industry to improve safety outcomes and drive best practice in log haulage.
The Australian Forest Contractors Association was responsible for leading the work, which included a consultative engagement process that allowed the industry to review and provide feedback throughout the development of the LHC.
In December 2019, AFPA Growers Chamber members unanimously endorsed the LHC, which was then submitted to NHVR. It has subsequently undergone a minor revision following initial feedback from the NHVR.
“The NHVR has advised AFCA that it has commenced the final stages of the registration process, which includes seeking public comment on the draft,” AFCA general manger Stacey Gardiner said.
“Feedback from industry submitted to the NHVR will be considered by an independent assessment panel of experts as part of their review of the LHC.
“I encourage all those who took part in the development of the LHC to consider submitting feedback as part of the NHVR 28-day public consultation process,” Ms Gardiner said.
Dr Andrew Jacobs, AFPA Growers Chamber Chair, said that after many years of consultative work he was pleased that the final stages of this process had begun.
“I encourage people to review the draft code that’s presented and to provide comment where needed so we can move to standardise log haulage across the industry,” he said.
Following the Independent Assessment Panel’s deliberations, they are expected to make recommendations to the NHVR CEO for consideration which is the final step before registration.
