NHVR give EWDs get the green light

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) will accept applications for approval for Electronic Work Diaries (EWDs) from May 28, after releasing the final consultation report this week.

NHVR Productivity and Safety Executive Director Geoff Casey said the regulator was satisfied EWDs would provide a sustainable and effective voluntary alternative to written work diaries to record work and rest hours for heavy vehicle drivers.

“There are more than 200,000 written work diaries purchased every year, including many by drivers who are already using electronic systems to assist in managing their work and rest hours,” Mr. Casey said.

“After reviewing the feedback I am satisfied that the issues raised have or will be addressed and the development of EWDs as a voluntary option for drivers can begin.

“From next month, we will be in a position to start receiving and assessing applications for approval from technology providers and transport operators who have advised their intention to develop an EWD. I’d expect to see EWD products available for drivers in the coming months.”

The NHVR received 25 submissions during the consultation period between December and February.

In the Notice of Final Rule Making 1702 released this week, the NHVR clarified how operators would be treated fairly whether using written work diaries or EWDs, including outlining that drivers can make manual entries at any time prior to accepting the information at the end of their work day.

The NHVR will review candidate systems against the EWD Standards and a list of EWDs that have been approved will be available on the NHVR website.

Mr. Casey said the NHVR had also agreed to waive any regulatory fees for companies or individuals submitting candidate systems for approval.

“We’ve also been working closely with authorised officers and police to inform them of the type of information they’ll see under the EWD Compliance View.”