Tuesday, 12 May 2009
Media Release
From the Premier of Victoria
An innovative technology program introduced by the Brumby Government is now being used to monitor the movements of heavy mobile cranes and concrete pump trucks on Victorian roads to ensure they stay on pre-approved routes.
Roads and Ports Minister Tim Pallas said the Intelligent Access Program (IAP) monitoring began this month following a six month transition period that gave operators time to prepare for the new system.
Mr Pallas said IAP used Global Positioning System (GPS) units to track the vehicles and ensure they adhered to approved routes at approved times and did not drive on roads from which they are restricted.
"The implementation of IAP is yet another example of the Brumby Government taking action now, using leading edge innovation and technology, to deliver widespread improvements to road safety and access across the state," Mr Pallas said.
"With the commencement of IAP most heavy mobile cranes and concrete pump trucks in Victoria must be fitted with IAP capability.
"By keeping heavy mobile cranes and concrete pump trucks on approved routes, IAP will deliver better efficiency and productivity for the road transport industry alongside improved road safety and access for all road users."
Mr Pallas said that IAP would also protect roads and bridges that were unsuitable for these heavy vehicles.
"On the wrong routes the weight of heavy cranes and concrete pump trucks has the potential to damage the roads on which they drive," he said.
"Approved routes for these vehicles are assessed to ensure their service capacity. IAP will monitor compliance of these heavy vehicles in using approved routes, enabling the wider road network to remain efficient and in a good state of repair."
Mr Pallas said that heavy mobile crane and concrete pump truck operators previously carried the administrative burden of fitting their own GPS units.
"Heavy mobile cranes and concrete pump trucks operators have been responsible for making their own arrangements to monitor these vehicles’ movements. With IAP certified service providers will monitor these vehicles and reduce the administrative onus on the operator."
IAP is administered by Transport Certification Australia with all certified service providers required to meet strict quality and performance standards.
Transport operators or interested parties can request the IAP requirements or information kits by emailing iap@roads.vic.gov.au.