VOSA redoubles focus on van standards

VOSA is continuing to ramp up its efforts to encourage van fleet compliance with the launch of a new Van Best Practice Guide, which the agency has said will help van operators run their fleets in a roadworthy and costeffective manner.

VOSA pointed to uncertainty surrounding the legal requirements involved in operating van fleets, which it said had led to a rise in noncompliance within the sector.

“With 50 per cent of light goods vehicles (vans) failing their MOT test year on year, it is clear that things have to change,” said the agency.

Contents in the guide include an operator checklist – covering topics from daily checks, maintenance, record-keeping, vehicle condition, and risk and driver management – as well as an equivalent checklist for drivers, offering advice on subjects such as licences, relevant regulations and vehicle loading.

The document also outlines VOSA’s enforcement powers, and offers an illustrated checklist for daily walk-round checks.

In a foreword to the guide, senior traffic commissioner Beverley Bell said: “I am delighted to endorse this VOSA publication, which provides valuable advice and guidance for those using light goods vehicles.

“It has recently become clear that unfortunately many LGVs and their drivers are not as safe as they should be. With the large growth in this sector it is vital that all operators of commercial vehicles – whether under or over 3.5 tonnes – ensure that their fleet is roadworthy and that their drivers are not only complying with the law but also professionally trained.”

Gordon MacDonald, head of VOSA enforcement policy, said: “It’s well known by people in the motor trade that there is a high first time MOT failure rate for this type of vehicle. Many of the owners are running small to medium businesses and it must cause inconvenience, especially loss of income, while their vehicles are off the road.

“We want to work with them to increase their awareness that a regularly serviced and well maintained vehicle will mean their business is more efficient and they won’t risk having to let customers down because they can’t do the job.

“This publication is a collaboration with trade representatives involved in the industry; and VOSA working with them to come up with a workable solution. It is hoped that this guide will prove to be a valuable tool to help drive up standards of those operating vans for business or private use, making the UK road network a safer environment for all users.”

MacDonald is also due to make a keynote address at the Freight Transport Association’s latest Van Excellence conference, to take place in Dunblane on Tuesday 29 October. In the speech he will focus on the impact of the recession on fleet practices, and outline VOSA’s views on LCV operational standards across the UK.

Mark Cartwright, FTA’s head of vans, said: “Van Excellence proves that operators are entirely capable of selfregulation. FTA applauds the efforts of VOSA to increase general operational standards and we are delighted that VOSA has agreed to come along and provide its views on the issues facing van operators.”

Further topics to be addressed at the conference include road risk management, an accredited operator’s take on the Van Excellence scheme, cost reduction, legislative matters, future van technology, and vehicle specifications. VOSA’s Van Best Practice Guide can be downloaded here.

For more on the FTA Van Excellence conference or to book a place, click here.