COMMITTEE ME-005

DR AS 1418.20:2014

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(Project ID: 101465)

Draft for Public Comment

Australian Standard

LIABLE TO ALTERATIONDO NOT USE AS A STANDARD

BEGINNING DATE
FOR COMMENT:

14 August 2014

CLOSING DATE
FOR COMMENT:

16 October 2014

Important: The procedure for public comment has changed please

read the instructions on the inside cover of this document.

Cranes, hoists and winches

Part 20: Tow trucks

COPYRIGHT

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Draft for Public Comment

Australian Standard
The committee responsible for the issue of this draft comprised representatives of organizations
interested in the subject matter of the proposed Standard. These organizations are listed on the
inside back cover.
Comments are invited on the technical content, wording and general arrangement of the draft.

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The method for submission of comment on this document is to register and fill in an online form via
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STANDARDS AUSTRALIA
Committee ME-005Cranes
Subcommittee ME-005-23Special Purpose AppliancesTow Trucks

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DRAFT
Australian Standard
Cranes, hoists and winches
Part 20: Tow trucks

(To be AS 1418.20:201X)

Comment on the draft is invited from people and organizations concerned with this subject.
It would be appreciated if those submitting comment would follow the guidelines given on
the inside front cover.

Important: The procedure for public comment has changed please

read the instructions on the inside cover of this document
This document is a draft Australian Standard only and is liable to alteration in the light of
comment received. It is not to be regarded as an Australian Standard until finally issued as
such by Standards Australia.

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PREFACE
This Standard was prepared by the Standards Australia Committee ME-005, Cranes.

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The objective of this Standard is to set out requirements for the design of tow trucks for
reference by tow truck designers, users and regulators.
All road-going vehicles in Australia are subject to the Motor Vehicles Standards Act 1989,
and are required to comply with the associated safety and environmental standards, known
as the Australian Design Rules (ADRs).
The ADRs concern the design of tow trucks as a vehicle, and do not cover the design,
testing and other aspects of the hoisting, winching and other equipment associated with
towing operations. These were previously covered in an earlier edition of AS 1418.5, but
were excised from the 1995 edition of the Standard. Standards Australia was approached by
the Australian Motor Vehicle Certification Board and the Technical Liaison Group, which
comprise the Commonwealth Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development, all
jurisdictions vehicle regulators, and industry and user stakeholders, to facilitate developing
a standard that will incorporate these items.
The requirements specified in this Standard are not intended to be retrospective, but to
apply once the Standard is referenced in the ADRs.
The term normative has been used in this Standard to define the application of the
appendix to which it applies. A normative appendix is an integral part of a Standard.

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CONTENTS

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Page
SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL
1.1 SCOPE ......................................................................................................................... 4
1.2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS ................................................................................... 4
1.3 DEFINITIONS............................................................................................................. 5
1.4 NEW DESIGNS AND INNOVATIONS ..................................................................... 9
1.5 RELATIONSHIP TO VSB 6 ....................................................................................... 9
SECTION 2 DESIGN
2.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................. 10
2.2 SECURING DEVICES .............................................................................................. 10
2.3 SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR DIFFERENT TYPES OF TOW TRUCKS ........ 10
2.4 CONTROLS .............................................................................................................. 11
2.5 OPERATIONAL EQUIPMENT ................................................................................ 11
2.6 INDICATING AND WARNING DEVICES ............................................................. 12
SECTION 3 TESTING AND REPAIRS
3.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................. 13
3.2 TESTING AND PROCEDURES ............................................................................... 13
3.3 RECORD OF TESTING ............................................................................................ 15
3.4 REPAIRS ................................................................................................................... 15
SECTION 4 MANUALS AND MARKING
4.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................. 16
4.2 MANUALS................................................................................................................ 16
4.3 MARKING ................................................................................................................ 17
APPENDIX A ROAD USE ................................................................................................... 19

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STANDARDS AUSTRALIA
Australian Standard
Cranes, hoists and winches

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Part 20: Tow trucks

S E C T I O N

S C O P E

A N D

G E N E R A L

1.1 SCOPE
This Standard specifies requirements for the lifting and winching mechanisms of tow
trucks, including those fitted to the tow trucks tray, and ancillary items used to secure the
removed vehicle and to help safeguard the person in the removal operation.
NOTE: Unless specified otherwise, the term tow truck is used to describe all the vehicle types
defined in this Standard. This Standard does not apply to devices used for A-frame towing, to
vehicles intended to be used for shunting operations or to car carriers.

This Standard does not apply to the design of the host vehicle and integral components
relative to its operation as a vehicle in road transport. These aspects of the vehicle are
covered by the Australian Design Rules (ADRs).
The requirements for road use are given in Appendix A.
1.2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS
The following documents are referenced in this Standard:
AS
1353

Flat synthetic-webbing slings

1380

Fibre-rope slings (of natural or synthetic rope)

1418
1418.1
1418.5
1418.8
1418.11

Cranes, hoists and winches

Part 1:
General requirements
Part 5:
Mobile cranes
Part 8:
Special purpose appliances
Part 11:
Vehicle loading cranes

1438

Wire-coil flat slings

1666
1666.1

Wire-rope slings
Part 1:
Product specification

2444

Portable fire extinguishers and fire blanketsSelection and location

2550
2550.1

Cranes, hoists and winchesSafe use

Part 1:
General requirements

2741

Shackles

3569

Steel wire ropes

3775

Chain slingsGrade T

3776

Lifting components for Grade T chain slings

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AS
4024
Safety of machinery
4024.1604 Part 1604: Design of controls, interlocks and guardingEmergency stop
Principles for design
4142

Fibre ropes

ISO
13850

Safety of machineryEmergency stopPrinciples for design

20381

Mobile elevating work platformsSymbols for operator controls and other

displays

SAE
J706

Rating of winches

VSB 6

National Code of Practice for Heavy Vehicle Modifications

NOTE: This document is available as a free download from the Commonwealth
Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development website.

EN
14492
14492-1

CranesPower driven winches and hoists

Part 1: Power driven winches

1.3 DEFINITIONS
For the purposes of this Standard, the definitions given in AS 1418.1 and those below
apply.
1.3.1 Australian Design Rules (ADRs)
A series of construction and performance standards that apply to vehicles supplied to the
Australian market.
1.3.2 Axle group
A single axle, tandem axle group, tri-axle group, or close coupled axle group, as
appropriate.
1.3.3 Axle group load
The sum of the axle load(s) for each individual axle within the axle group.
1.3.4 Axle load
The total load transmitted to the road by all the tyres of all the wheels whose centres may
be included between two transverse parallel vertical planes less than one metre apart.
1.3.5 Car carrier
A vehicle used to transport cars and other motor vehicles that are driven onto it.
1.3.6 Competent person
A person who has acquired through training, qualification, experience or a combination of
these, the knowledge and skill to enable them correctly perform the required task.
1.3.7 Cradle
A device that raises and supports the wheels of the removed vehicle lifted off the ground
during underlift towing operation.
1.3.8 Gross combination mass (GCM)
Value specified for the host vehicle by its manufacturer as being the maximum of the sum
of the GVM of the host vehicle plus the sum of the axle group loads of any vehicle capable
of being drawn as a trailer.
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1.3.9 Gross vehicle mass (GVM)

The maximum laden mass of the host vehicle as specified by its manufacturer.
1.3.10 Host vehicle
The vehicle that performs the towing operation.
1.3.11 Load capacity

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The difference between the GVM of a vehicle and its unloaded operational mass.
1.3.12 Rated lift capacity
The maximum load a tow truck can tow.
NOTE: The rated lift capacity may be less than the maximum load the tow truck is capable of
towing.

1.3.13 Removed vehicle

The vehicle being towed by the host vehicle.
1.3.14 Rigid pole
A device that connects the cradle to the lifting device in an underlift tow truck.
1.3.15 Tow
The removal of a vehicle by a tow truck regardless of how it is carried out.
1.3.16 Towing device
The mechanism used in attaching the removed vehicle to the host vehicle.
1.3.17 Tow truck
A motor vehicle used or intended to be used to relocate vehicles by hauling, lifting,
carrying or towing, and includes the following types:
(a)

Tilt slide vehicles (see Figure 1A)winches the removed vehicle onto the host
vehicles tray.

(b)

Underlift vehicles (see Figure 1B)connects the removed vehicle to the host vehicle
by a rigid pole and/or a cradle, and hoists the removed vehicles front or rear wheels
from the ground.

(c)

All-up vehicles (see Figure 1C)lifts the removed vehicle onto the tray of the host
vehicle.

(d)

Mobile cranes (see Figure 1D)uses the boom to lift either the front or rear of the
removed vehicle.

(e)

A combination of the above vehicles (see Figure 1E).

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1.3.18 Trailer

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A vehicle without motive power constructed to be drawn behind a motor vehicle.

FIGURE 1A

TILT SLIDE VEHICLE

FIGURE 1B

UNDERLIFT VEHICLE

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FIGURE 1C
ALL-UP VEHICLE

FIGURE 1D MOBILE CRANE

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FIGURE 1E COMBINATION OF MOBILE CRANE AND UNDERLIFT TOW TRUCK

1.3.19 Unloaded operational mass

The mass of the tow truck in fully operational running order and carrying all equipment
specified in this Standard and all adapters and attachments required for the lifting and/or
towing mechanism (e.g. blocks, pulleys etc.), fitted with all additional equipment carried on
the vehicle during a towing operation (e.g. spanners, socket sets, crawler boards), with all
fuel and other fluid reservoirs filled to maximum capacity, and unoccupied and not towing,
lifting or carrying any vehicle.
1.3.20 Working load limit (WLL)
The maximum load that a component has been designed to lift or support.
NOTE: For tow trucks fitted with winches, the mass of the hoist rope is not be considered in the
calculating the working load limit.

1.4 NEW DESIGNS AND INNOVATIONS

This Standard does not preclude the use of materials, designs, methods of assembly,
procedures, and the like, that do not comply with specific requirements of this Standard, or
are not mentioned in it, but which can be shown to give equivalent or superior results to
those specified.
1.5 RELATIONSHIP TO VSB 6
Tow trucks are rarely designed as a dedicated vehicle. Instead, they combine a vehicle that
compiles with the ADRs with dedicate lifting and towing equipment. Fitting the equipment
onto a vehicle shall be done in accordance with the requirements specified in Vehicle
Standards Bulletin 6 (VSB 6).

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S E C T I O N

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D E S I G N

2.1 GENERAL

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The lifting, winching or towing attachment shall be fitted to the vehicles chassis in
accordance with the vehicle manufacturers and the equipment manufacturers
specifications.
The lifting attachments WLL shall not be greater than the structural capacity of the host
vehicle or exceed the host vehicles GCM or GVM. If it is necessary to fit a lifting
attachment whose WLL is greater than the GCM or GVM, either the vehicles capacity shall
be increased or WLL of the lifting component shall be derated accordingly, and a notice to
this effect placed in a prominent position.
NOTE: A chassis may be strengthened to accommodate a higher WLL.

Every tow truck shall be equipped with suitable devices and safety chains to enable the
driver to exercise efficient control over the towed vehicle while it is being towed. The
devices shall be designed to minimize any damage to the towed vehicle that could be caused
by the tow truck or its equipment.
Every tow truck shall be provided with means for supporting the load, in conjunction with
the lifting device, in its raised position while under tow.
2.2 SECURING DEVICES
Devices used for securing the removed vehicle to the host vehicle shall comply with the
following Standards as applicable:
(a)

Chain slingsAS 3775.

(b)

Wire rope slingsAS 1666.1.

(c)

Wire coils slingsAS 1438.

(d)

Fibre rope slingsAS 1380.

(e)

Webbing slingsAS 1353.

(f)

HooksAS 3776.

(g)

ShacklesAS 2741.

(h)

Steel wire ropesAS 3569.

(i)

Fibre ropesAS 4142.

NOTE: The type of securing devices will depend on the type of tow truck used.

Anchorage points for the securing devices shall be provided on the tow truck. The
anchorage points shall be capable of supporting at least 125% of the rated load of the chain
or rope.
2.3 SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR DIFFERENT TYPES OF TOW TRUCKS
2.3.1 All-up tow trucks
Vehicles intended for all-up lift operations shall comply with AS 1418.11.
2.3.2 Mobile cranes
Mobile cranes used to tow vehicles shall comply with AS 1418.5.

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2.3.3 Combination
A tow truck that combines features of the different types of tow trucks detailed above, the
different features shall comply with the relevant requirements. For example, an underlift
tow truck fitted with a crane shall comply with Clauses 2.3.1 and 2.3.2.
2.4 CONTROLS

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2.4.1 General
The controls shall comply with AS 1418.1 and this Clause (2.4).
The tow truck shall be designed so the removal process can be done either with dual
controls that can be operated from either side of the host vehicle, or remotely by pendant or
cordless controls, including radio-wave signals, microwave signals and infra-red signals.
Fixed control position shall provide the operator with visual contact with the removed
vehicle while it is being connected to and unconnected from the host vehicle.
If devices are used to transmit wireless signals, they shall comply with the Radio
Communication Act 1992.
2.4.2 Activation and operation
Control devices that control any movement of the towing mechanism shall be of the
hold-to-run type, (i.e. they shall automatically return to the off or neutral position when
released). They shall be protected against unintentional activation.
2.4.3 Direction of movement
Controls should be arranged, so far as possible, such that their direction of operation
represents the corresponding machine motion. The direction of all movements of the tow
truck shall be clearly indicated on or near the controls by words or symbols in accordance
with ISO 20381. The controls shall be protected against faults that could cause movement
in a direction other than that selected by the operator. Mechanical components of control
systems shall be deemed to satisfy this requirement if they are designed to take at least
twice the load imposed on them.
2.4.4 Emergency stops
Tow trucks shall be provided with emergency stop controls according to AS 4024.1604 or
ISO 13850 at each control position. All emergency stop actuators at all control locations
shall remain active in all control modes. They shall be of the normally closed,
positive-break type.
2.5 OPERATIONAL EQUIPMENT
2.5.1 Electrical equipment and controls
Electrical equipment and controls shall comply with the relevant requirements of AS 1418.1
for electrical equipment and control and, where applicable, with specific requirements
appropriate to particular types of tow trucks as set out in this Standard.
2.5.2 Hydraulic equipment and controls
Hydraulic equipment and controls shall comply with the relevant requirements of
AS 1418.1 for hydraulic equipment and controls and, where applicable, with specific
requirements appropriate to particular types of cranes as set out in this Standard.
2.5.3 Pneumatic equipment and controls
Pneumatic equipment and controls shall comply with the relevant requirements of
AS 1418.1 for pneumatic equipment and controls and, where applicable, with specific
requirements appropriate to particular types of cranes as set out in this Standard.
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2.5.4 Winches
The winch shall comply with EN 14492-1 or SAE J706. Information on winches
manufactured to SAE J706 shall be in SI Units.
2.5.5 Tilting mechanism

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The tilting mechanism shall comply with the requirements specified for tip-trucks in
AS 1418.8.
2.6 INDICATING AND WARNING DEVICES
2.6.1 Load indicator
A load indicator (e.g. a scale) shall be fitted that measures and displays the mass of the axle
group load. The accuracy of the load-indicator shall be such that the indicated load is within
the tolerance 100% to 110% of the actual load.
2.6.2 Audible warning device
Tow trucks shall be fitted with an audible warning device. The device shall function
automatically at all times during the tow truck is performing loading/unloading operations.

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S E C T I O N

T E S T I N G

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A N D

R E P A I R S

3.1 GENERAL

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3.1.1 Type tests

The tests outlined in this Section shall be carried out in order to verify that the tow truck
and the towing device conform to the operational requirements stipulated by the
manufacturers specification and to verify the integrity of the structure and all the
components. The tests specified below are type tests and shall be carried out where a
particular vehicle model is fitted with particular equipment, and do not need to be done on
every installation.
The following tests shall be carried out:
(a)

Functional test.

(b)

Dynamic test.

(c)

Static stability test.

3.1.2 Commissioning tests

Prior to being placed in service, every tow truck shall be subjected to the
(a)

visual inspection; and

(b)

commissioning test

outlined in Appendix A.
3.2 TESTING AND PROCEDURES
3.2.1 General
During the tests, the tow truck shall be set up and controlled in accordance with the
manufacturers instructions, as detailed in the tow truck manual (see Section 4). The
maximum out-of-level shall be as specified by the manufacturer.
For some tests it may be necessary to override or disable any safety devices that are
installed on the tow truck. All such devices shall be reconnected, recalibrated and retested
after the tests are completed.
The structural integrity and stability of the tow truck shall be determined either by static
testing or computer simulation. If testing is done, it shall comply with Clause 3.2.5 below.
Commissioning tests specified in Paragraph A7 shall be done prior to placing the completed
tow truck in service.
3.2.2 Calibration of the indication device
Before any tests are carried out, the indication device shall be calibrated using the loads and
procedures specified by the procedures specified by the devices manufacturer.
3.2.3 Functional test
3.2.3.1 Test procedure
The tow truck functions shall be operated throughout the range of all permitted movements
up to the maximum speeds and up to the WLL.

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3.2.3.2 Functional test acceptance criteria

The test shall be considered to be successful upon the satisfactory operation of the control
systems and any performance-limiting devices, in accordance with the manufacturers
specifications.
3.2.4 Dynamic test
3.2.4.1 Test procedure
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The test load shall be at least 110% of the WLL.

Dynamic tests shall be performed separately for each lifting or winching motion or, if stated
in the specifications of the tow truck, simultaneous tow truck motions. The tow truck shall
hoist or winch the test load in the positions and configurations that impose the maximum
loading or maximum stresses in the tow truck components. Testing shall be carried out at
speeds specified by the designer and shall include repeated starting and stopping of each
motion throughout the range of the motion.
3.2.4.2 Dynamic test acceptance criteria
The test shall be considered to be successful if all the components concerned have been
found to perform their functions correctly according to the design specification and an
examination after the test reveals no damage to the mechanisms or structural components.
The temperature of the hydraulic oil shall be within the limits recommended for the oil
specification.
3.2.5 Static stability test
3.2.5.1 General
The purpose of this test is to verify the structural integrity of the tow truck under load, and
that it remains stable during all phases of the loading operation.
The static stability test shall be carried out for the following conditions:
(a)

As a design type test after the tow truck has been configured in its final working
position ready to be put into service.

(b)

After any load-bearing components have undergone structural repairs.

(c)

After the tow truck has undergone an alteration that affects its operation (e.g. an
increase or decrease in its capacity).

The test specified below shall be carried out using a test load of 125% of the WLL.
3.2.5.2 Static stability test procedure
The tow truck shall hoist or winch the test load in the positions and configurations that
impose the maximum loads or maximum stresses in the tow truck components and
structures. Hoisting or winching shall be done in accordance with the specified operating
procedures. During the test, the load indicating device may be temporarily disconnected.
The results shall be recorded and retained by the manufacturer and made available upon
request.
3.2.5.3 Static stability test acceptance criteria
The test shall be considered to be successful if
(a)

no crack, permanent deformation, paint flaking or damage that affects the function
and safety of the tow truck and its installation is visible and no connection has
loosened or been damaged; and

(b)

all wheels shall remain in contact with the ground throughout the test.

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3.3 RECORD OF TESTING

All pertinent data and observations regarding the inspection and test shall be recorded and
attested to by the competent person observing the tests. Certificate(s) of test shall be issued
after testing in accordance with this Standard.
3.4 REPAIRS

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Repairs shall be in accordance with AS 2550.1.

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S E C T I O N

M A N U A L S

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A N D

M A R KI N G

4.1 GENERAL

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All information to be supplied with the tow truck shall be sufficient to ensure that the tow
truck can be used and maintained in accordance with its intended use. Information shall be
in English and, where notation is used, it shall be in SI units.
4.2 MANUALS
4.2.1 Provision of manuals
Printed manuals shall be provided with each towing device by its manufacturer. The
manuals shall be in accordance with AS 1418.1. An installation manual in accordance with
Clause 4.2.2 shall be produced and made available to the installer on request. Manuals may
be separately or jointly bound.
4.2.2 Information to be included in the installation manual
Mounting instructions shall include the following:
(a)

Requirements for bolts and fastenings for mounting the towing device onto a vehicle.

(b)

Masses, centres of mass and all information required for

(c)

(i)

calculation and test of stability; and

(ii)

calculation of axle group loadings.

Hydraulic system requirements, which shall include

(i)

pressure and flow requirements;

(ii)

system oil capacity;

(iii) system oil specification;

(iv)

minimum reservoir capacity recommendations; and

(v)

recommended filtration.

(d)

Electrical system requirements.

(e)

Advice on where to position the underlift to ensure it is within mandatory rear

overhang limits.

4.2.3 Operators manual

4.2.3.1 General
The operators manual shall include sufficient information to enable the safe operation of
the tow truck, including the following technical data and information:
(a)

A description of the control system, including diagrams and descriptions of the

symbols used with the control levers.

(b)

A description of the safety devices.

(c)

A drawing showing all the warning signs and the positions they are affixed to the
towing device.

(d)

All operational requirements necessary to safeguard the operator when operating from
a dedicated operating position.

(e)

The service conditions for intended use and service conditions for which the towing
device shall not be used.
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(f)

A description or drawings identifying hazard zones and no-go areas.

(g)

A description of the additional equipment required for the tow truck.

(h)

The towing devices working load limit.

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NOTE: This may include examples of vehicles that cannot be recovered with the towing device.

4.2.3.2 Ground limits

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The manual shall specify ground conditions that may limit the trucks operation, such as
maximum gradient or cant.
4.2.3.3 Operating temperature range
The manufacturer shall include information on the normal temperature range for operation
of the towing device. At temperatures outside the normal temperature range, the towing
device manufacturer shall provide advice on precautions to be taken before operating it.
4.2.4 Maintenance manual
4.2.4.1 General
The maintenance manual shall include information and instructions that ensure maintenance
can be carried out safely. Foreseen hazards that could occur shall be identified.
Information and drawings for the identification of parts that may need replacement during
maintenance shall be shown.
The manual shall include information for the in-service inspections and tests that are
required to be carried out by a competent person to ensure that the towing device is safe to
use. The instructions shall detail the necessary periodic checks and test procedures for the
tow truck, including the indicating devices. Specific time periods or monitoring procedures,
or both, may be listed.
The manual shall contain instructions on examinations and tests that shall be carried out
after alterations or repairs to a towing device before putting back into use.
4.2.4.2 Out-of-service hydraulic pressure release
The manufacturer shall provide advice on how to disconnect tubing and lines when pressure
is retained in the hydraulic lines when the power supply has been switched off.
4.2.4.3 Specialized repairing techniques
The manual shall include information on materials and parts requiring specialized repairing
techniques (e.g. welding at low temperature).
4.2.4.4 Service record
Means for recording tests, maintenance, inspections, commissioning or alteration shall be
provided (e.g. logbook).
4.3 MARKING
4.3.1 Manufacturers plate
A plate shall be fixed permanently on the towing device by its manufacturer. It shall contain
the following information:
(a)

Manufacturer and, if applicable, the supplier.

(b)

Year of manufacture.

(c)

Serial number.

(d)

Model.

(e)

The towing devices working load limit.

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In addition, a statement of compliance with this Standard shall be displayed adjacent to the
manufacturers plate.
4.3.2 Installers plate

Licensed to Mr John Samson on 18 August 2014. Personal use licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

The installer of the towing device shall affix a plate to the left side of the sub-frame
immediately under the towing device, or as required by the appropriate regulatory authority.
The plate shall contain the following information:
(a)

Installers name and address.

(b)

Year of installation.

(c)

Towing device serial number and chassis or vehicle identification number.

(d)

The rated lift capacity.

This information may be combined with the plate required by VSB 6.

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APPENDIX A

ROAD USE
(Normative)

Licensed to Mr John Samson on 18 August 2014. Personal use licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

A1 GENERAL
This Appendix specifies additional requirements that may apply to a tow truck to ensure it
complies with national and local road regulations. Tow trucks are required to conform with
regulations to be registered for road use. If there is a conflict between the regulations and
this Appendix, the regulations shall prevail.
A2 VEHICLE COMPATIBILITY
The vehicle used to house the towing mechanism shall be capable of accommodating the
towing mechanism in accordance with the manufacturers instructions. The towing
mechanism shall be mounted on the vehicle in accordance with its manufacturers
instructions. The vehicles load capacity should not be less than the lifting mechanisms
WLL.
The tow truck (i.e. vehicle and towing device) shall be configured so that the following are
not exceeded in both the unladen and fully laden states:
(a)

Tyre load limits.

(b)

Vehicle manufacturers axle group load limits.

In addition, for tow trucks intended for operation as general access vehicles, the statutory
axle mass limits shall not be exceeded.
A3 TYRES
Vehicles used as a tow trucks shall be fitted with dual tyres on the wheels of the rear axle
group.
A4 CLASSIFICATION
Tow trucks shall be classified as follows:
(a)

Class 1 A tow truck with a load capacity of not less than 1.2 tonnes equipped with a
towing mechanism with a WLL of not less than one tonne.

(b)

Class 2 A tow truck with a load capacity of not less than 3 tonnes equipped with a
towing mechanism with a WLL of not less than 2.5 tonnes.

(c)

Class 3 A tow truck with a minimum gross GCM of 18 tonnes and a rated lift
capacity of at least 6.4 tonnes, equipped with a towing mechanism with a WLL of not
less than 5 tonnes.

(d)

Class 4 A tow truck with a minimum GCM of 25 tonnes a rated lift capacity of at
least 6.4 tonnes, and equipped with at least the following:
(i)

A tandem rear axle group.

(ii)

A towing mechanism with a WLL not less than 5 tonnes.

(iii) A power operated winch.

(iv)

Air brake facilities for connecting to towed vehicles.

Tow trucks shall be classified in accordance with the registering authoritys

regulations.
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A5 ADDITIONAL LAMPS

Licensed to Mr John Samson on 18 August 2014. Personal use licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

Every tow truck shall be equipped with the following:

(a)

Amber warning lamp(s) that either flashes or has a shield that covers 50% of the light
and which rotates when the lights operate. LED-type lamps shall have a power output
of 26 W, and conventional lamps shall be 55 W. At least one lamp shall be mounted
on top of the vehicle and when lighted, shall be visible in normal daylight up to a
distance of not less than 200 m to vehicles approaching from any direction.

(b)

An adjustable white lamp so mounted that during the hours of darkness it will
illuminate effectively the operating area when connecting or disconnecting the
recovered vehicle to the tow truck.

A6 ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT
In addition to the towing device, the tow truck shall be supplied with all equipment
necessary to correctly do the removal operation and secure the vehicle to the tow truck, and
other equipment to help ensure the removal operation is done safely and minimises the risk
to the tow truck operator and other road users. As a minimum, this equipment shall include
the following:
(a)

At least five traffic delineation cones.

(b)

For underlift tow trucks, a light bar with auxiliary rear lights, indicators and brake
lights, for fitting to the recovered vehicle.

(c)

Warning triangle.

(d)

24-hour reflective vests for the operators.

(e)

A broom and receptacle, and oil absorbent material for cleaning up debris from the
towed vehicle.

(f)

A dry-powder fire extinguisher (AS 2444) of at least 4.5 L capacity.

(g)

All other items specified by Commonwealth legislation or local registration

requirements.

A7 VISUAL INSPECTION
Prior to entering service, and before the commissioning test described below, every tow
truck shall undergo a detailed visual inspection to check the condition of all vital
components such as
(a)

mechanisms, electrical equipment, safety devices, brakes, controls, lighting and

indicating systems;

(b)

all guarding;

(c)

load-handling attachments and their connections; and

(d)

hoist and winch connections.

A8 COMMISSIONING TEST
In addition to the tests required in Section 3, each completed tow truck shall be subjected to
a commissioning test to ensure it is capable of operating at its maximum specified load. The
tow truck shall be tested at its rated lift capacity and the axle group loads for each axle
recorded. If the mandatory loads are reached below the rated lift capacity, the value shall be
recorded and the tow truck derated accordingly.

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A9 TOW TRUCK CAPACITY

The rated lift capacity in kilograms of the tow truck as specified by the registering authority
shall be clearly displayed on the rear of the tow truck in block letters and figures of not less
than 50 mm in height (using black lettering on a retro-reflective yellow background with no
letter or figure within 25 mm of the edge of the background).

Licensed to Mr John Samson on 18 August 2014. Personal use licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

The permitted axle masses at maximum rated load, and the maximum load for compliance
with statutory axle mass limits shall be marked on the tow truck in a prominent position.

*** END OF DRAFT ***

101465 AS1418.20 Public Comment.docx - 07/08/2014 9:01:02

PREPARATION OF AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS

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Australian Standards are prepared by a consensus process involving representatives

nominated by organizations drawn from all major interests associated with the subject.
Australian Standards may be derived from existing industry Standards, from established
international Standards and practices or may be developed within a Standards Australia
technical committee.
During the development process, Australian Standards are made available in draft form at
all sales offices and through affiliated overseas bodies in order that all interests concerned
with the application of a proposed Standard are given the opportunity to submit views on
the requirements to be included.
The following interests are represented on the committee responsible for this draft
Australian Standard:
Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Australian Industry Group
Australian Institute for Non-Destructive Testing
Bureau of Steel Manufacturers of Australia
Crane Industry Council of Australia
Department of Commerce, WorkSafe Division, WA
Department of Justice and Attorney General, Qld
Elevating Work Platform Association of Australia
Engineers Australia
NSW Department of Trade and Investment, Regional Infrastructure and Services
Transport for NSW
WorkCover New South Wales
WorkSafe Victoria
Additional interests participating in preparation of Standard:
CVIAQ
Department of Transport, WA
Gross Towing and Equipment
Leighton Contractors
MTA
North Shore City Towing
NRMA
RACQ
Suburban Towing and Equipment

Licensed to Mr John Samson on 18 August 2014. Personal use licence only. Storage, distribution or use on network prohibited.

Standards Australia
Standards Australia is an independent company, limited by guarantee, which prepares and publishes
most of the voluntary technical and commercial standards used in Australia. These standards are
developed through an open process of consultation and consensus, in which all interested parties are
invited to participate. Through a Memorandum of Understanding with the Commonwealth government,
Standards Australia is recognized as Australias peak national standards body.

Australian Standards
Australian Standards are prepared by committees of experts from industry, governments, consumers
and other relevant sectors. The requirements or recommendations contained in published Standards are
a consensus of the views of representative interests and also take account of comments received from
other sources. They reflect the latest scientific and industry experience. Australian Standards are kept
under continuous review after publication and are updated regularly to take account of changing
technology.

International Involvement
Standards Australia is responsible for ensuring that the Australian viewpoint is considered in the
formulation of international Standards and that the latest international experience is incorporated in
national Standards. This role is vital in assisting local industry to compete in international markets.
Standards Australia represents Australia at both ISO (The International Organization
for Standardization) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

Electronic Standards
All Australian Standards are available in electronic editions, either downloaded individually from SAI
Global, or via on-line and CD ROM subscription services. For more information phone 131 242 or visit
www.saiglobal.com/shop