NZTA issues safety alert

The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has issued a safety alert strongly advising heavy vehicle operators to be vigilant in cleaning and checking towing connections and components certified by Auckland-based heavy vehicle specialist certifier Patrick Chu of Transport & Structure Ltd. 

“There has been sub-standard work identified in certain heavy vehicle specialist certifications issued by Mr Chu,” said the NZTA in a recent statement. “These include both towing connection and chassis certifications. Eight certifications have also been revoked.”

The NZTA is now advising operators who have a vehicle certified by Chu to be extra vigilant about safety. 

This includes cleaning and inspecting the towing connections, components, and ensuring they are re-checked if any issues are identified.

The NZTA is currently analysing certain files relating to certifications issued by Chu and will immediately update vehicle owners if any risk to their vehicle is identified.

The numbers of potentially impacted vehicles are yet to be confirmed.

Despite eight certifications already being revoked, all certifications by Chu that have not been revoked by the NZTA remain valid. 

Chu is the seventh heavy vehicle specialist that the NZTA has had safety concerns with this year. 

Read the safety alert and Q&As here.