DOT forces the pace on bridge-bash regs
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• Laws designed to reduce the number of bridge bashing incidents have been brought forward by the Government after consultation showed an urgent need for new safety measures.
The proposals are expected to be approved by the Government next month and should become law before the parliamentary summer recess in July.
The safety measures had been expected to be phased in between August and January 1997 (CM 22-28 February) but following consultation they were brought forward.
The necessary amendments to the Construction and Use regulations are being prepared by the Department of Trail:Tort for rubber stamping by ministers in six weeks.
The changes will require all vehicles to be fitted with in-cab signs indicating their height; LGVs with power operated equipment must have warning devices that sound if cranes are raised while in transit.
The Freight Transport Association says: "No dates have yet been set but we expect there to be at least a six-month delay between the recommendations being approved and becoming law. We are pleased but think it should be phased in to give hauliers time to make the necessary changes."