May 2008
VEHICLE EXAMINER – John Eustace – COMMENTS.
I have been very lapse in the frequency of providing an updated “Vehicle Examiner – Comment”. So much for my intention of a monthly contribution.
FIRST ANNIVERSARY
The beginning of this month marks 12 months since the commencement of vehicle inspections by TBA Services Pty Ltd. And yes it is time to sit back and reflect on the past year.
There is no doubt that the decision taken by the board members of Tasbus in applying for an AIS Contract and implementing an inspection service for the bus industry has received total endorsement by both members and non members alike around the state. The success of this service has exceeded all expectations and is no doubt returning benefits to the members of Tasbus particularly in not being required to travel long distances for inspections.
At times it has been hard work resulting in a few long day’s, however I made a commitment to your President and General Manager that I would play my part in ensuring that the inspection service not only came to fruition but would be a successful venture and together (with the total support of the membership) this result has been reached.
It is important to note that any venture will not succeed without all “players” contributing and I would like to acknowledge operators / drivers / inspection facility support staff for the cooperation and support received.
I am now starting to get to know the operators / drivers and know the vehicles. I honestly believe that together we have been able to bring about a greater level of consistency with the inspection criteria and process. This in itself has contributed to a high level of trust and integrity within the industry and in turn ensured a higher degree of roadworthiness of the bus fleet.
INSPECTIONS – SCHEDULE
The placing of the inspection dates / regions schedule on the web site has received outstanding support in recent months. I believe this concept has worked well with very few delays in meeting the required booking time. At all times I have been conscious of work commitments and as such been prepared to ensure flexibility with times to ensure a win – win outcome.
The schedule outlining dates, regions and locations of vehicle inspections for the period of May through to August inclusive is currently listed on the web site. A reminder to operators to notify the association office if you would like vehicles inspected whilst I am in your area so as firm bookings can be made ensuring unnecessary delays or holdups.
I have planned the schedule in July to enable a couple of weeks of R & R from the 7 to 18 inclusive. I hope to attend the Maintenance Conference in Melbourne as part of this R & R as well as watch the roo boys.
I have discussed with your President and Geoff the possibility of introducing an ‘on line’ booking service. However to enable any positive outcome on this matter, the majority of members must have access to the internet. I would like to canvass members in coming weeks of those with internet access and if you would embrace an ‘on line’ booking concept.
INSPECTION ITEMS
· Certification of Mobile Vehicle Testing Units
The 2 MVTU’s were recently subject to annual inspection, recalibration and certification. Both units were in excellent working order.
· AIS Audits
TBA Services continues to receive spot audits from D.I.E.R. personnel. It is pleasing to report no major problems with the current inspections being undertaken.
· Bus Seating Plans / Measurements
I have received quite a number of phone calls in recent weeks from operators checking on the current legislative requirements for bus seating plans and allowable measurements. I trust I have been of assistance. In order to further assist with this matter a copy of the D.I.E.R. seating plan is available on the Tasbus web site. And yes it is advisable to check seating measurements as one of your criteria prior to purchase of vehicles from interstate.
· Standard of Vehicles
The standard of the bus fleet throughout the state continues to impress me. Vehicles are being presented for inspection in very good condition with a very low percentage of PPV vehicles found defective at the initial inspection. The main defect continues to be in brake operation however defects can be largely contributed to factors undetectable by operators in maintenance programs. Operators are to be congratulated on the overall condition of vehicle being presented.
· Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual – (commonly referred to as the ‘reasons for rejection’ manual)
The revised version of this document has been delayed and will be distributed in coming weeks. The Manual has been redrafted to reflect the current legislation. The Manual will include Vehicle Standards Bulletins relating to the relevant sections of the Manual. These Bulletins will enable operators to be fully conversant with the legislative requirements relating to all facets of the vehicle, be it tyres, lighting, seat belts etc etc. This revised Manual will greatly assist operators in ensuring compliance.
· Pre Registration Inspections
Operators are to be commended on the excellent quality of the PPV vehicles (new and used) being purchased in recent months. TBA Services has undertaken in excess of 80 pre registration inspections on PPV vehicles for the period from 01 September to 30 April. There would be additional units to this total that have been inspected at other AIS venues or the licensed dealerships. It is pleasing to see the number of new 24 seat / seat belted vehicles being purchased by operators.
· Attendance at Tasbus Annual General Meeting
I have accepted an invitation to attend the AGM. As occurred in 2007, I have scheduled inspections in the south of the state to coincide with this important event. I look forward to seeing you at this meeting.
Please feel free to contact me on 0418 144 438 or email at inspections@tasbus.com.au
John Eustace
Senior Vehicle Examiner.