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Ensuring the load height of your truck is properly measured can be a fatal matter. One case from July 2021 saw a truck deflecting into the path of an oncoming vehicle, tragically causing the driver’s death. Despite being an experienced truck driver, the incident still occurred. The judge noted that truck drivers do not have […]
Ensuring the load height of your truck is properly measured can be a fatal matter. One case from July 2021 saw a truck deflecting into the path of an oncoming vehicle, tragically causing the driver’s death. Despite being an experienced truck driver, the incident still occurred.
The judge noted that truck drivers do not have recognised industry standards or training to measure the heights of loads. Truck drivers must intimately understand the appropriate standards and regulations.
The Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2016 is designed to create a reasonable balance between efficient heavy motor vehicle fleet operations within the constraints imposed by the road network and the safe operation of heavy motor vehicles.
The Rule creates limits to the permitted dimensions and mass of vehicles, with particular emphasis on large combination vehicles. Vehicles first registered in New Zealand before 1 February 2017 that had complied with previous legislation still comply with dimension and mass limits imposed by said legislation.
All heavy vehicles must now meet the static roll threshold (SRT) requirements, though. Vehicle stability can be greatly affected by how it’s loaded. The load needs to be arranged so that its mass and height are appropriate for the vehicle’s design and the type of load.
Before 2002, one in eleven log trucks rolled over each year in New Zealand. The Land Transport Rule 2016 means rollover among log trucks is now much less common.
A vehicle’s SRT measures the potential for that vehicle to roll over sideways. The lower your SRT, the less stable your vehicle. High SRT vehicles are less likely to roll over than low SRT vehicles, especially when going around sharp bends and in sudden emergency manoeuvres.
To improve stability, heavy vehicles with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) greater than certain specified limits must meet or exceed a minimum static roll threshold value. Visit the Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) website for more information: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/
When a vehicle doesn’t meet or exceed the required stability limit, its stability can be improved by operating it with a reduced load mass and/or reduced load height. Another option is for the vehicle to be modified so it has adequate roll stiffness to operate safely at maximum carrying capacity.
There are some exceptions. If the vehicle or load exceeds the maximum weight and you believe you’re eligible for a permit, you can contact your nearest Waka Kotahi office.
In 2010, a new permit system was introduced for high-productivity motor vehicles (HPMV). These carry a divisible or indivisible load and may be overlength and/or overweight but not overwidth or overheight.
HPMVs exceed a mass of 44,000kg and/or the maximum length dimensions allowed for standard vehicles but meet higher individual axle and axle group limits and are no wider or higher than a standard vehicle.
A vehicle operating on an HPMV permit must carry the permit in the truck, and it must be shown to a police officer on request. It is important to comply with all conditions, particularly those relating to mass and route.
Get in touch with key agencies to further discuss your unique situation on this critical matter.
Accurately measuring load heights involves using reliable tools such as height poles, laser measures, or height sensors. Truck drivers should also make sure that they measure from the correct reference points and account for any potential shifts in the load during transit.
It’s critical to measure load height correctly, just as truck drivers must receive proper training. Certification programs can provide drivers with the knowledge and skills they need.
Organisations such as the New Zealand Trucking Association offer training and resources to help drivers stay informed and safe. Established in 1988, the Trucking Association serves as a collective voice for trucking operators throughout the country.
They work closely with various local councils and government agencies such as Waka Kotahi, WorkSafe, ACC, and other key industry stakeholders and actively address issues that directly impact our members.
By investing in proper training, using reliable measurement tools, and staying informed about the latest standards, we can prevent tragic incidents and make New Zealand’s roads safer for everyone.
