For the last week, headlines across the country have shown pictures of flaming trucks and empty bowsers. Enforcement agencies have also kicked their operations into top gear.

It’s the strongest possible reminder of how important it is to keep on top of your maintenance and make sure your fleet is safe.

At the 2013 PACCAR & Dealer TMC, your maintenance personnel can make sure they’re at the top of their game with technical forums led by industry experts as well as hands-on product training workshops.

ATA Chief Executive Stuart St Clair said it was everyone’s responsibility to make sure tragic accidents like this don’t happen.

“Delaying or avoiding any part of truck maintenance is a false economy. Keeping your fleet in top shape is essential: for you, your drivers, your customers and the community,” he said.

“TMC2013 is the ideal opportunity for your staff to keep up with the latest issues. In the technical sessions, they’ll share expert insight and advice with industry experts like NTI National Manager Industry Relations Owen Driscoll, leading engineer Dr Peter Hart, and Bob Pearson, the father of the B-double.”

Mr Driscoll said his session would share recommendations on how to minimise the risk of non-impact fires, which he says now account for more truck losses than fatigue.

“These fire losses originated from failed wheel bearings, brakes, engine, cabin electrical wiring and trailer refrigeration equipment. It naturally raises the question of whether the standard of quality and regular equipment maintenance has become less rigorous,” Mr Driscoll said.

“Workshop technicians can remove many of the risk factors for these fires with preventative measures such as installing circuit breaker protection, ensuring proper tyre inflation and checking wiring for rubbing.”

TMC2013 will run from Monday 28 to Wednesday 30 October at the Automotive Centre of Excellence at the Kangan Institute in Docklands, Melbourne.

The event features technical forums on key issues like truck electrical fault finding, parts purchasing and tyre selection and maintenance, as well as showcasing the latest products from leading suppliers at the TMC Marketplace.  

Attendees will also go back to work with a certificate signed by TMC and the supplier for each hands-on product training workshop they attend.

For the full TMC2013 program and to register, go to www.truck.net.au/tmc.