Mercedes Benz Trucks (20 and 28 ULD vehicles) are supplied to Australia Post with a fixed side step as standard. However, driver feedback has indicated difficulties with maintaining a safe three points of contact when using the steps – mainly due to the height of the first rung from ground level.
Australia Post has decided to introduce a form of folding steps which management say has been designed to provide safe, stable and secure access and egress to the truck tray. The design will allow for three points of contact at all times when climbing or descending. The steps will also be fitted with a non slip surface, and have been redesigned to be fitted at any point around the combing rail of the truck tray.
The redeveloped step will now be included in the specifications for all newly acquired vehicles, and will replace the current step option on existing Mercedes vehicles supplied in NSW, VIC, TAS, ACT and SA.
The redesign does not affect vehicles operating in QLD and WA, who have alternately configured rigid bodies on their vehicles. Alternate steps are currently being developed to meet the needs of these states.
Drivers in their respective states and their CEPU representatives will be consulted prior to implementation.
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