In September 2016 the Land Transport Working Group conducted a survey to review member policies and controls related to the use of communication devices and other screen activated devices in moving vehicles.

To total of 39 responses were received from the 84 member organisations that received the survey.

The questions addressed the use of mobile phone, UHF/digital radio, navigation devices and other screen activated devices in moving vehicles.

Key findings:

  • Although some members are of the view that compliance with relevant legislation provides effective management of risks, others have already established requirements that go beyond regulatory compliance.
  • In some areas, most of the surveyed organisations hold consistent views on appropriate risk-based requirements (e.g. prohibiting any use of mobile phones whilst driving). In other areas requirements may not match practice (e.g. some respondents prohibit the use of UHF/digital radio whilst driving, yet most surveyed organisations indicate that they have a legitimate use for these devices whilst driving).
  • Where use of communications devices and other screen activated devices is specifically allowed by policies/standards/procedures, the circumstances in which they are allowed and the restrictions that apply vary from organisation to organisation.

In response to the survey results, the Land Transport Working Group has agreed to:

  • Consult with Industry and other stakeholders to develop requirements for the use of communications devices and other screen activated devices in vehicles operating in the Queensland Natural Gas E&P Industry.
  • Embed these requirements in revisions to Safer Together Heavy Vehicle and Light Vehicle Standards.
  • Communicate revised Standards across the Industry.
  • Monitor roll-out and implementation.

To read a report summarising survey results and recommendations click here.

Comms Device Report.PNGFor more information about the work that the Land Transport Working Group is doing click here

Contact: [email protected]