Chain of Responsibility

Chain of Responsibility (CoR)

Introduction

At Quick Cargo, we are committed to ensuring the safety and compliance of all parties involved in the transportation of goods. This guide is designed to help you, our valued customer, understand your responsibilities and how you can contribute to a safer and more efficient transport environment.

Who is Involved in the CoR?

The CoR legislation ensures that all parties in the transport supply chain are responsible for safety. It includes employers, contractors, operators, schedulers, consignors, consignees, packers, loading managers, loaders, and unloaders.

Customer Responsibilities in the CoR

• As Consignors:
  • General Responsibilities: Ensure goods are accurately classified, described, packed, and labeled in accordance with national standards.
  • Weight and Dimensions: Accurately report the weight and dimensions of items being transported. This is essential to comply with vehicle loading regulations and to ensure safe load distribution. Overloading or improper load distribution can lead to vehicle instability and increased risk of accidents.
  • Loading Responsibilities: Safely and effectively oversee or conduct the loading of trucks, using proper techniques to secure loads and prevent shifting during transport.
  • Documentation Accuracy: Provide complete and accurate documentation to transporters, including shipping details, item weights, and any required hazard information.
• As Consignees:
  • Safety of Unloading Area: Maintain an unloading area that complies with safety standards, ensuring it does not contribute to or encourage violations of safety regulations, such as driving hours.

How Compliance Affects You

Adhering to CoR laws is not just a legal requirement—it's crucial for the safety of all road users involved in heavy vehicle operations. Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, including fines and damage to reputation, and has serious implications for safety.

Tips for Ensuring Compliance

• Regularly update your compliance procedures to reflect current laws and best practices.
• Train your employees on their responsibilities under the CoR to ensure everyone understands how they can contribute to safety.
• Implement a compliance management system to monitor, record, and manage CoR-related activities effectively.

Additional Resources

For comprehensive guidelines and the latest updates on legislation, please visit the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) website at www.nhvr.gov.au.

Conclusion

Your proactive engagement in fulfilling CoR responsibilities not only helps ensure compliance but also promotes a safer and more reliable transport environment. We value your commitment to safety and are here to support your efforts in achieving these critical goals.