Article by Caitlin Rintoul courtesy of the West Australian.
Gina Rinehart has led a push for safer rubbish trucks in WA, bringing mining technology to the streets of Perth.
The mining magnate has funded new trucks with collision mitigation systems, which provide the driver with visual and audible warnings to avoid accidents.
Mrs Rinehart’s commitment to upgrade City of Perth’s rubbish truck fleet came after her friend’s brother died from a tragic accident with a sanitation vehicle on the east coast.
A month-long trial proved to be a “great success”, according to Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas.
“Now thanks to Roy Hill, and this amazing technology, our team can access even the narrowest city streets and laneways effectively and safely,” he said.
“We’re proud to be leading the way in WA by introducing this technology across our fleet.”
The City expects the rollout of the new technology will take place in the coming months after a procurement process.
The technology was developed through Perth-based company APS Lighting and Safety, which worked collaboratively with Roy Hill engineers.
Mrs Rinehart had approached the local government after recognising an opportunity to leverage Hancock Prospecting and Roy Hill’s skills and expertise in vehicle automation.
“I had no doubt that through the determination and commitment of our people at Roy a solution could be developed which will have a lasting and significant safety legacy in Perth,” she said.
“Having felt the pain of a dear friend mourning the tragic loss of his much-loved brother, I certainly hope this new solution will play an important part in others not having to go through similar tragic circumstances.”
