NZ Heavy Haulage Association

Communication the key for oversize at works sites

Jonathan Bhana-Thomson

THE ROAD CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE SEASON IS

in full swing and this coincides with the peak season for oversize freight movements around New Zealand.

As a result, we have seen that there have been many times when the transport of loads has been delayed or impacted by these works going on. We understand completely that roading improvements and much-needed maintenance of the roads must be undertaken, however of late we have noticed that the way that works projects are being undertaken is imposing more restrictions on the movement of freight.

The key is for good communication between the contractors undertaking the work and the transport industry – in the planning, the prior notice, and during the actual construction work: Get these things right, and all will go more smoothly for all parties. There is particularly an onus on transport operators – especially those with oversize freight – to communicate and do their part.

1. Planning

Clearly this depends on the scale of the project, both in terms of scope and duration, but the contractors need to consider what the impact is on all road users. Often pedestrians and cyclists – as vulnerable road users – are the first considered. We have no problem with that – but the largest road users on the network also need to be specifically considered.

If the impact of the works is such that it effects the passage of freight on that route – and especially if detour routes will be used – there needs to be consultation with the freight industry.

There is a good network of transport associations around NZ that can be counted on to provide informed feedback, and to gather the issues from their membership, about how the works will impact them.

2. Prior communications

It is crucial to have good prior communications with the freight industry once a traffic management plan has been agreed with industry representatives, to enable operators to plan their loads around the impact of the works.

Where closures and detours are advised, then a minimum of two weeks – and preferably four weeks – should be sufficient for the industry associations to disseminate the information amongst their members, and for it to then percolate out to the wider heavy traffic users.

This provides time for planning and the scoping of any alternate routes by transport operators, and for them to then communicate any impacts on to their clients.

Even if the construction schedule has to be altered slightly, in terms of start dates or weather or equipment delays, that still means that it’s not a surprise to transport operators that the work is occurring.

3. During the construction

Particularly for oversize freight operators, if the transport of a load will mean that there will be an impact on the crews undertaking the construction, or if the width or length of a load will mean that it cannot pass through the works site within the lane provided, they need to get in contact with the works site.

It is a frustration that at times the contact information relating to a project are not available to the transport industry, however if you are a member of an association, then contact it, as it is sure to have the contact details – or be able to track them down for you. At the NZHHA we always request contact info for any works that we are advised of, and distribute this to members on at least a weekly basis.

There are a large number of factors involved in transporting an oversize freight load in particular, but some of these can be made easier with some simple communication. T&D