Convoy Driving

Scope

This Operational Guideline should be considered for NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) members travelling together in RFS vehicles during operational activities.

Fundamental Protocols underpin the actions of all RFS members and must be adhered to at all times. They outline the Principles of being an RFS member and provide guidance on conduct to support the safety and wellbeing of members.

Guiding Principles

• A convoy consists of two or more vehicles travelling together between two set points under a single command authority. The largest grouping of vehicles travelling together is recommended to be no larger than one Strike Team.
• This OPG should be read in conjunction with RFS OPG - Safe Driving.

Special Considerations

• Convoys are to be briefed prior to departure, using SMEACS, and should include:
  • Departure time;
  • Destination;
  • Estimated time of arrival;
  • Route;
  • Stopping points and duration of stops:
    • Driver changeover;
    • Accommodation and/or meals; and
    • Vehicle refuelling and servicing.
  • Order of vehicles and stick to that order;
  • Communication channel and relevant mobile phone number/s; and
  • Police escort arrangements (where applicable).
• Vehicles must Proceed under normal local state road rules, unless specifically instructed to Respond by the dispatching officer or Incident Controller (IC).
• The spacing of vehicles in a convoy (outlined in the illustration below) is to be:
  • Minimum 200m and maximum 500m on the open road.
  • Minimum 50m in built up or urban areas.
  • Minimum 5km between Strike Teams.

Related Information

• Crimes Act 1900 (NSW)
• National Heavy Vehicle Regulator
• RFS OPG - Safe Driving
• RFS Policy 8.1.1 Passenger Motor Vehicle Usage
• RFS Service Standard 6.1.2 Qualifications for NSW RFS Members
• Road Rules 2014 (NSW)