Fatigue Management

TLIF2010A Apply Fatigue Management Strategies (advised for drivers) and TLIF2010A combined with TLIF3063A Administer Implementation of Fatigue Management Strategies (advised for managers and schedulers)

 

Smiths Training Services Fatigue Management training can be delivered by our nationally accredited trainers at any facility or work site across the country.

About the Fatigue Laws

New Heavy Vehicle Driver Fatigue laws commenced on 29 September, 2008 making all parties in the supply chain legally responsible for preventing driver fatigue. The new laws apply to a truck with a GVM of over 12 tonnes or a combination if the total of the GVM’s is over 12 tonnes.

The new laws also apply to a bus or coach with more than 12 seats, including the driver.

The laws change the focus from regulating hours to managing fatigue. Working long hours and fighting body clock circadian rhythms at night is widely recognised as high risk. Operators and drivers who comply by managing fatigue risks through accreditation schemes will have greater control over scheduling work and rest breaks. Productivity levels can be maintained and frequently enhanced by better planning trips and rest breaks, maintaining and validating accurate records, and training drivers and schedulers to understand and address the causes of driver fatigue.

What are the options?

There are three options for maximum work time and the minimum rest time to choose from (refer table below). The Standard Hours option will suit most businesses as it sets default limits for work and rest. If drivers need more flexible hours, consider applying for Basic Fatigue Management (BFM) or Advanced Fatigue Management (AFM).

Work and Rest Options

Option	Requirements
Standard Hours	Basic work and rest limits
Basic Fatigue Management (NHVAS accredited)	More flexible work and rest hours linked to accreditation
Advanced Fatigue Management (NHVAS accredited)	Create a customised safety management system and work hours linked to accreditation

Chain of Responsibility (CoR)

Under this new legislation, operators and schedulers who contribute to fatigue by setting unrealistic schedules and requiring fatigued drivers to exceed basic work and rest limits can now be prosecuted and face tougher penalties. Similar laws have successfully reduced overloading offences. The reform imposes a general duty to manage fatigue that requires all parties in the supply chain take all reasonable steps.

To qualify for BFM and AFM, an operator must produce a Statement of Attainment issued by a  Registered Training Organisation (RTO).

To access BFM, operators will need to be accredited in the National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (NHVAS), and comply with six BFM standards covering scheduling and rostering, fitness for duty, fatigue knowledge and awareness, responsibilities, internal review, and records and documentation.

All training resulting in a Statement of Attainment, including ‘Apply Fatigue Management Strategies’ and ‘Administer Implementation of Fatigue Management Strategies’, is recognised nationally and issue through one of our partner RTO’s.