Log Transport Safety Council's Emma Goodwin talks road compliance and its importance to safety
The log transport industry plays a critical role in New Zealand’s economy, moving millions of tonnes of timber from forests to mills, ports, and processing facilities every year. However, with the vast distances covered and the demanding nature of the job, ensuring road compliance is not just a legal requirement but also a cornerstone of safety. Proper road compliance practices are crucial in minimising accidents, protecting the well-being of drivers, and maintaining the integrity of the entire supply chain.
Understanding road compliance
Road compliance refers to meeting a set of regulations and standards designed to ensure that vehicles, drivers, and transport operations meet the safety requirements laid out by governing bodies such as the NZ Transport Agency.
The Log Transport Safety Council (LTSC) is at the forefront of promoting road safety and compliance within the log transport industry. With a mission to create a safer working environment for its members, LTSC is recognised within the industry to continually improve safety standards and ensure that both companies and drivers understand their responsibilities. By advocating for best practices in vehicle maintenance, load management, and driver health, LTSC helps to foster a culture of safety and compliance throughout the sector. In the log transport industry, road compliance covers several areas:
Vehicle maintenance: Ensuring that trucks and trailers are regularly serviced, meet warrant of fitness (WoF) standards, and are equipped with the necessary safety features.
Load management: Ensuring loads are secure and within legal weight limits, which reduces the risk of rollovers, equipment failure, or damage to roads.
Driver fatigue management: Monitoring driver hours and enforcing rest periods to prevent fatigue-related accidents.
Speed and route compliance: Adhering to speed limits and using approved routes to protect both drivers and the public from the dangers associated with transporting heavy loads on unsuitable roads.
Non-compliance in any of these areas can lead to severe consequences. Overloaded or poorly maintained vehicles are more prone to accidents, while fatigued drivers are at higher risk of making critical errors on the road. In a country where log transport often occurs on rural or narrow roads, the margin for error is even slimmer.
Why compliance matters
The forestry and transport industries in New Zealand are evolving, with increasing pressure to meet high demand while maintaining sustainability. Road compliance helps manage the growing number of vehicles on the road, ensuring that safety standards keep pace with industry demands. It’s no longer just about following the rules to avoid fines; it’s about cultivating a culture of responsibility where every stakeholder — from drivers to operators to regulators — understands their role in keeping the roads safe.
The LTSC emphasises that compliance is not merely about regulation but about safeguarding the livelihoods of drivers and ensuring that they return home safely each day. By encouraging regular health checks, offering fatigue management tools, and promoting continuous education on road safety, LTSC is helping to drive home the message that compliance is integral to the safety and success of the industry.
Moreover, sticking to compliance standards supports the longevity of the industry by protecting the environment, reducing wear and tear on public infrastructure, and improving public perception of the log transport sector. Road compliance creates an environment where businesses can thrive while minimising their impact on New Zealand’s roads and communities.
The role of industry and government
Both the log transport industry and regulatory bodies must work together to ensure compliance. While NZTA sets the standards, it’s up to individual companies to enforce these rules through internal audits, regular training for drivers, and continuous vehicle maintenance.
The LTSC has been instrumental in bridging the gap between industry needs and regulatory requirements. Through its ongoing partnerships and advocacy, LTSC provides clear guidelines and resources to help members understand and implement the necessary measures for compliance. One notable example is LTSC’s involvement in the Alternative Fatigue Management Scheme (AFMS) trial. The AFMS aims to offer more flexible approaches to managing driver fatigue, going beyond standard
hours-of-service regulations while still ensuring driver safety. By pushing for this trial, LTSC is helping the industry explore innovative solutions that address the realities of long-distance driving while maintaining compliance with safety standards.
Their active participation in the development of health and safety initiatives, including the AFMS trial, ensures that compliance becomes second nature to companies and drivers alike, advancing both safety and operational efficiency across the industry.
Looking ahead
In the future, compliance will likely become even more important as technology continues to evolve. GPS tracking, electronic logbooks, and telematics systems are already providing better ways to monitor vehicles and driver behaviour in real-time, improving adherence to road safety standards.
For the log transport industry in New Zealand, road compliance is not just a box to be ticked. It’s an essential part of running a safe, efficient, and sustainable operation. By maintaining high compliance standards, companies protect their workers, safeguard their businesses, and contribute to a safer and more reliable road network for everyone.
The LTSC will continue to champion safety initiatives, ensuring that compliance remains at the heart of the industry’s future. Through its efforts, LTSC aims to see a future where all members adhere to the highest safety standards, creating a safer and more sustainable industry for generations to come.