Challenges in Livestock Loading Infrastructure: The Hidden Standard
Livestock producers looking to enhance their loading infrastructure are facing a notable roadblock: a national safety standard, developed in 2020, is locked behind a paywall. The cost to access the Australian Standard for Livestock Loading/Unloading Ramps and Forcing Pens is $136, raising questions about accessibility for those it aims to protect.
The Importance of the 2020 Standard
Released in 2020, the AS 5340:2020 standard was introduced to reduce safety risks for livestock producers and transporters. This initiative was the result of extensive lobbying by the Australian Livestock and Rural Transporters Association (ALRTA), who had previously published their own guidelines in 2015. The new standard emphasizes the separation of humans and livestock during the loading and unloading process, something that gained urgency following a tragic incident involving a transport worker in 2013.
Unawareness and Accessibility Issues
A recent field day in North Queensland highlighted the necessity for this standard, yet many in attendance were unaware of its existence, as it is only available for purchase. Critics argue this limited access hampers the safety improvements it is supposed to promote.
Standards Australia, which publishes these guidelines, defends the necessity of a paywall for funding their operations, citing that many standards serve niche markets and are not high-volume sellers. However, this raises concerns about whether those who genuinely need access to such vital safety tools can afford it.
Industry Responses and Recommendations
In 2021, the ALRTA petitioned the Australian Government for relief from these fees, advocating that guidelines similar to their previous ones should be freely accessible across the supply chain. They continue to offer guidance on ramp safety principles to producers at no charge, attempting to fill the gaps left by the paid standards.
The Disconnect in Safety Expectations
ALRTA CEO Anthony Boyle has emphasized that not all properties require extensive double-deck ramps. He noted that well-designed single-deck ramps can effectively meet safety requirements without exorbitant costs. The ongoing situation highlights a disconnect between the expectations set by safety regulators and the practical realities faced by producers.
With guidelines for safe loading processes and infrastructure risks outlined under the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s Master Code of Practice, the existence of this paid standard creates a paradox. While producers are encouraged to improve safety performances, they lack access to the precise guidelines.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The ALRTA continues to provide support through its state member associations, and producers seeking advice can reach out directly for assistance. The broader industry must advocate for more accessible safety standards to ensure the well-being of both livestock and handlers.
Contact Information for ALRTA
Phone: 02 6247 5434
Email: office@alrta.org.au
Website: alrta.org.au
