All vehicles DG Trailers that use NSW roads, not just those that are registered in NSW, will need to comply with the EPA determination to have approved Roll Stability System installed on the tank trailer from 1 January 2019.
In January 2014 the EPA released a determination that requires the fitting of Roll Stability Systems (RSS) to all DG Tank Trailers that will be used on NSW roads from 1 January 2019 (click here for a copy of the determination [ https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/-/media/epa/corporate-site/resources/dangerousgoods/140060trailerdglist.pdf?la=en&hash=896819762625FFF4F747E216FFD08524AA040FDD ]). This determination was then further clarified in August 2014 (click here for a copy of the determination [ https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/-/media/epa/corporate-site/resources/dangerousgoods/dgroverdetaug2014.pdf?la=en&hash=9D1D6EC74694FAFE8FCB1D2D9F471B81D382D2F8 ] ) .
In discussing the initial determinations, EPA’s Director of Hazardous Incidents and Environmental Health, Mr Craig Lamberton, said “Roll-over control reduces the risk of vehicle rollover and is consistent with good industry practice both here and internationally. The decision to require retrofitting of roll-over control to tanker trailers by 1 January 2019 is an Australian first and fully supported by the National Bulk Taker Association and the Australian Road Transport Suppliers Association”.
As per the determination RSS, also known as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), is required for all DG tank trailers which are heavy vehicles (GVM greater than 4.5 tonnes), including; semi-trailers, B-Double trailers, dog trailers, pig trailers.
From 1 January 2019, it will be unlawful to load, drive, operate or consign a dangerous goods vehicle in NSW that fits into these categories unless it is fitted with RSS. It is important to note that this requirement applies to vehicles that are registered out of state but are used on NSW roads, and that penalties apply for the operators, loaders and consigners if a non compliant vehicle is used.
While most newer vehicles and tanks manufactured after June 2014 would have RSS fitted as a standard, older vehicles and tanks must be retrofitted in order to comply with the determination.
RSS can be fitted by most heavy vehicle break specialists. ACAPMA has received several requests from members for assistance in locating businesses that have capability to retrofit RSS. While ACAPMA is not in a position to be able to recommend businesses in a commercial sense, we are able to provide guidance for operators looking for businesses who are capable of retrofitting RSS. Contact ACAPMA via communications@acapma.com.au and provide the depot address and we will provide a list of local businesses that are known to have capacity to install RSS.
