School Vehicles and Equipment

The School of Geography and Environmental Science currently operates three vehicles:

1. Toyota Hilux utility 4WD - this vehicle is reserved for staff use only

2. Toyota Hilux utility 2WD

3. Toyota Landcruiser Troop Carrier – diesel

These vehicles are to be used for official University business only, and graduate students may only use them with prior approval of their supervisor.

The vehicles are located in the YELLOW parking zone opposite the Menzies Building (next to bus loop).

The rules governing School vehicle use MUST be followed to ensure safe and efficient management.

1. Driving licence: All users must provide proof (photocopy) that they possess a current Victorian driving licence. All 4WD users must be proficient in driving such vehicles as attested by David Tooth (Workshop Manager) who gives instruction in the safe and proper use of 4WD vehicles early each year for newcomers.

2. Smoking and consumption of alcohol are prohibited in School vehicles - insurance contracts are based on zero blood alcohol levels.

3. Bookings: Vehicle use must be reserved by placing a booking in the folder located in Room S212. Name, period of proposed use and destination must be clearly stated.

Bookings must allow time for adequate loading, unloading, and washing/cleaning (both inside and out). When a late return from a field trip is expected, the booking should extend to the following morning to allow for proper cleaning. Tentative bookings MUST be minimised, but if necessary should be clearly stated to allow for consultation with other prospective users. Cancellations must be made as soon as possible, and when made on the booking date must be made prior to 9.30 a.m. by notifying David Tooth ext. 52922. Vehicle keys should be returned to Room S212 PROMPTLY after a trip, including weekends.

4. Log books: Log books are picked up together with the vehicle keys (only during working hours) from Room S212. All items are to be returned promptly to the same office after use (during working hours). Details of trips must be entered into the Log Book, including dates, distance travelled, and signature: if your signature is illegible, please print your name as well. Drivers must record in the Log Book the date and nature of any vehicle problem and also notify David Tooth.

5. Fuel: Vehicles must be returned fully refuelled at Shell service stations using the Shell card within the folder. Receipts for fuel must be returned to Jean Newey in Room S212 when returning keys and Log Book.

Note: when a vehicle has not been refuelled due to a late return from a field trip, the user should refuel the vehicle early the following morning. When refuelling , oil level, radiator coolant, window washer level and tyre pressure should be checked.

Users of the diesel 4WD should avoid running on a near empty fuel tank because of the risk of air entering the fuel line. Only engine oils suitable for diesel engines may be used.

5. Cleaning. Vehicles should be washed and vacuum cleaned after every trip. Rubbish removed and dash board, seats, etc. wiped. Cleaning facilities are available in the vehicle compound, except on Monday mornings and Friday afternoons, by asking the transport supervisor. All bookings should allow time for cleaning and refuelling. THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR LEAVING A VEHICLE IN AN UNSATISFACTORY CONDITION.

6. Vehicle equipment. Fire extinguishers are fitted to each vehicle, also first aid kits are kept in the glove box of each vehicle; any use and/or shortage should be reported to David Tooth. A basic set of tools may be signed out for emergency use on field trips from David Tooth.