NatRoad recently has a query about when heavy vehicle operators must carry fire extinguishers. The answer is:
Under the HVNL there are no mandatory requirements, but there are some under State laws and the Australian Design Rules (ADRs):
- Tow trucks – ADR44 requires every tow truck to be fitted with a fire extinguisher. This is also a requirement for tow truck licencing under most jurisdictional tow truck laws.
- Motorhomes and caravans – ADR44 requires every caravan and motorhome to be fitted with a fire extinguisher.
- Buses – buses used for hire and reward are required to be fitted with a fire extinguisher under ADR58.
- Dangerous Goods vehicles – State DG laws require vehicles carrying DG to be fitted with certain types and sizes of fire extinguishers.
