CONTAINER Transport Alliance Australia is to deliver a “safe shipping container loading practices initiative”.
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (supported by the federal government) is contributing funding to the initiative.
CTAA director Neil Chambers said the project would be delivered in the next 12 months.
Unrestrained or poorly loaded cargo inside shipping containers poses a significant threat to heavy vehicle safety.
Data on heavy vehicle accidents from National Transport Insurance show that container-laden heavy vehicles are 36% more likely to result in a truck rollover compared with vehicles carrying general freight.
A common factor in these incidents is vehicle instability caused by load-shift inside the container.
Mr Chambers said the aim of the initiative is to increase the awareness of the real dangers to on-road safety of poorly packed, unrestrained and unevenly balanced cargo inside shipping containers.
“[The initiative] will educate industry on best practices in container packing, cargo restraint inside shipping containers, and international and national guidelines including the latest regulatory advice from the NHVR,” he said.
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said CTAA is one of 15 grantees that will receive funding as part of the federal government’s $3.5-million investment towards HVSI projects.
“As part of the HVSI, industry will be driving its own safety initiatives to contribute to safer roads, drivers, and vehicles,” Mr. Petroccitto said.
“Round-seven projects include practical resources to assist industry with load restraint and mass compliance, advanced driver training, and crash prevention technology.
“I am excited to support CTAA’s project to make an impact in delivering improved safety outcomes for all road users.”
