TPMS

The Impact of Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems on Heavy Vehicle Safety and Compliance

The integration of advanced technology into heavy vehicles is not merely about providing luxurious amenities but primarily about safety and cost-effectiveness. A prime example of this is the adoption of Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS), which can significantly contribute to improving safety, reducing driver fatigue, decreasing maintenance costs, and ensuring compliance with stringent regulations. This document discusses these benefits in the context of the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) requirements and Safe Work Australia's document titled "Vehicles as a Workplace".

1. Improvement in Safety

TPMS is a valuable tool designed to continually monitor the pressure in the tyres of heavy vehicles. By signaling if a tyre’s pressure is below or exceeds the recommended level, it prevents tyre blowouts, significantly reducing the risks associated with tyre failure including accidents, rollovers, and jackknifing (^1^).

These TPMS can review both tyre pressure and tyre temperature which are also indicators of potential problems with brakes, axles, wheel bearings etc.

2. Reduction of Driver Fatigue

Secondly, TPMS can play a critical role in reducing driver fatigue. By eliminating the need for manual tyre pressure checks and addressing issues before they become problematic, drivers are relieved of additional strain, both physically and mentally (^2^).

3. Reduction in Maintenance Costs

Under or over-inflation can significantly shorten tyre lifespan, leading to frequent, costly replacements. Moreover, incorrect pressures also affect fuel efficiency, making heavy vehicles more expensive to operate. TPMS helps maintain optimal pressure levels, thereby extending tyre life and improving fuel consumption (^3^).

Correct tyre pressure (as per the OEM standards of the vehicle manufacturers and the tyre manufacturers - you need to ensure tyres are fit for purpose when selecting them based on potential usage, weather and road conditions, weight to be carried, speed to be travelled) van also ensure you are able to carry a correct mass as per the OEM standards, that brakes and suspension work correctly etc.

4. Compliance with Regulations

With regulatory frameworks like HVNL and Safe Work Australia's document on Vehicles as a Workplace, TPMS can assist in meeting safety and maintenance requirements. These documents deem correct tyre pressure maintenance pivotal in ensuring vehicle safety, with TPMS enabling compliance in an efficient manner (^4^, ^5^).

5. Reference and Information Websites

Information on benefits and regulations can be accessed on:

1. Official website of National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) -?www.nhvr.gov.au
2. Safe Work Australia's site -?www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au
3. Industry standards on TPMS technology -?www.tpmsindustryassociation.org

6. Responsibilities

• Drivers:?To understand TPMS alerts and act appropriately, maintain timely reporting of issues, and incorporate TPMS data into regular vehicle checks.
• Mechanics:?To ensure TPMS components are in optimal operation, carry out necessary repairs or replacements, and educate drivers on understanding and responding to TPMS alerts.
• Load Managers:?To ensure vehicles are loaded within their safe operational parameters and that loading practices do not interfere with TPMS function.
• Vehicle Operators and Prime Contractors:?Develop and enforce policies for TPMS use, ensure full compliance with all HVNL and Safe Work Australia's regulations, and support training efforts for effective TPMS implementation and understanding.
• Owners: to review the risks involved in operating vehicles and ensure they have mitigated risks by applying and managing appropriate safety equipment. Where TPMS is installed, they need to have a method to ensure they review relevant data produced by the system and not just rely on a driver or mechanics report.

Conclusion

Implementing TPMS for heavy vehicles can unequivocally elevate the status of road safety, contribute to enhancing driver conditions, cut back on maintenance costs and better ensure compliance with the guiding principles under the HVNL and Safe Work Australia's Vehicles as a Workplace document.

References:

1. TPMS safety benefits, TIA (Tire Industry Association).?https://www.tireindustry.org/tpms-glossary-information
2. De Vries, J., de Winter, J. C., & Stanton, N. A. (2019). Effects of TPMS on driver fatigue: An on-road study. Journal of Safety Research, 71, 73–83.
3. Goodyear. (n.d.). The Importance of Correct Tire Pressure.?https://www.goodyear.eu/en_gb/consumer/tire-education/the-importance-of-correct-tire-pressure.html
4. National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR). (n.d.). Heavy vehicle inspection manual.?https://www.nhvr.gov.au/safety-accreditation-compliance/vehicle-standards-and-modifications/heavy-vehicle-inspection-manual
5. Safe Work Australia. (n.d.). Vehicles as a Workplace: Work Health and Safety Guide.?https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/doc/vehicles-workplace-work-health-and-safety-guide