Free Vac Truck VOC (Verification of Competency) Template
Download our free Vac Truck VOC Template:
*For internal use only. Not for resale or redistribution. By downloading, you agree to our Free Resources Licensing Agreement.
Purpose of a Vac Truck VOC Document
Vac Truck VOCs are used to verify a worker’s competence in Vac Truck use. The primary goal is to protect workers from injury or illness through effective training and competency procedures. This form is broadly aligned with AS45001:2018.
How to Use
This Vac Truck VOC should be completed by a competent person in consultation with the trainee who will use the plant.
This document is a template only and it must be customised for your business. Other aspects that may need to be considered include, but are not limited to, ensuring that:
- Relevant legal requirements have been met,
- Workplace specific risks are identified and managed, and
- Workers are consulted with during the customisation / review process.
When to Use
Vac Truck VOCs should be completed prior to the worker operating plant or equipment within your business.
Who Should Use
Vac Truck VOCs must be completed by someone who is familiar with operation of the piece of plant or equipment. This person should also be competent in training and assessment methods.
Legal Considerations
There is no specific legal requirement to complete a documented Verification of Competency (VOC). However, it is best practice, especially for larger companies. It can help meet general legal duties, including:
- s(19)(3)c WHS Act – Duty to Provide Safe Systems of Work
- s(19)(3)d WHS Act – Duty to Ensure Safe Use of Plant
- s(19)(3)f WHS Act – Duty to Provide Adequate Information, Training, Instruction and Supervision
- s(203) WHS Regulations – Management of Risks to Health and Safety (PCBUs with management or control of plant)
The Code of Practice “Managing risks of plant in the workplace” states that employers (PCBUs) must ensure workers are trained and have the appropriate skills to carry out a particular task safely.
FAQ
What is a vac truck?
A vac truck, short for vacuum truck, is a specialized vehicle equipped with a powerful vacuum system used to suction and remove various materials such as liquids, sludge, debris, or hazardous waste from underground utilities, industrial tanks, sewers, and other confined spaces. Vac trucks are commonly used in tasks related to waste management, environmental cleanup, industrial maintenance, and spill response. They play a vital role in cleaning and maintaining infrastructure and environments.
What is a vac truck used for?
A vac truck, short for vacuum truck, is primarily used for suction and removal of various materials, including liquids, sludge, debris, and hazardous waste, from underground or hard-to-reach areas. It’s commonly employed in industrial, municipal, and environmental applications such as cleaning sewers, maintaining drainage systems, and handling spills.
What hazards are involved in vac truck use?
Many hazards exist in vac truck operation, for example:
- Collapse/Rollover
- Struck-By Accidents
- Entrapment
- Falls
- Exposure to Hazardous Materials
- Equipment Malfunction
To mitigate these hazards, proper training, adherence to safety protocols, regular equipment maintenance, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and thorough site inspections are essential.
Do you need a license to operate a vac truck?
To operate a vac truck on public roads or road-related areas, you will need a state-issued driver’s licence (likely HR Class).
Did you know?
Vac trucks, also known as vacuum trucks or sucker trucks, have a significant presence in Australia, serving a multitude of purposes. These specialized vehicles are equipped with powerful vacuum systems that allow them to suction and transport a variety of materials such as liquids, sludge, debris, and even hazardous substances.
In Australia, vac trucks are extensively utilized for maintaining clean and functional infrastructure, including sewer systems, stormwater drains, and septic tanks. They also play a crucial role in industrial applications, like spill cleanup, waste management, and hydro-excavation. The versatile capabilities of vac trucks make them indispensable for efficient environmental management and infrastructure maintenance across the country.
Article Sources and Further Reading
Model Code of Practice: Managing risks of plant in the workplace (Safe Work Australia) <https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/doc/model-code-practice-managing-risks-plant-workplace>
Plant (Safe Work Australia) <https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/safety-topic/managing-health-and-safety/plant>
What is a PCBU? (Spire Safety) <https://spiresafety.com.au/resources/what-is-a-pcbu/>