The Government of Western Australia has launched a new application for smartphones that will assist truck drivers while transporting dangerous goods within the state.

The new app, known as ‘Dangerous Goods Road Transport Decoder’, is developed by the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety.

It is said to be user-friendly and can be used offline when saved in the mobile’s home screen.

Once downloaded, users can select the class of dangerous goods such as explosive or toxic gas that are being transported and the packaging type.

The app will provide complete information about the transport safety requirements for the respective goods.

Western Australia Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston said: “One of the McGowan government’s key priorities is the safety of workers and this app will help protect them and the public on Western Australian roads.

“This app is an excellent example of Western Australian innovation and I encourage transport drivers of dangerous goods to download it.”

“While ignorance of safety requirements is never an excuse, this app makes it easier for workers to know exactly what is required to safely transport dangerous goods to and from mine sites.

“This app is an excellent example of Western Australian innovation and I encourage transport drivers of dangerous goods to download it.”

The app is expected to help the mining industry while transporting hazardous elements found in the mine sites. Last month, the state government implemented new regulations to keep minimum safe passing distance while travelling.

The regulation requires the drivers passing a cyclist travelling in the same direction to keep a 1m distance on roads with a posted speed limit of no more than 60kmh.

If the vehicle speed is more than 60kmh, a distance of 1.5m should be maintained.