2 Start offers inspection advice
Training provider 2 Start Ltd has issued guidance to fleet managers and drivers on a range of factors to take into account during regular HGV testing, inspection and daily walkaround check regimes.
“As an operator of any large vehicle, it is vitally important that you complete regular maintenance inspections and vehicle checks, not only to help ensure the safety of other road users but to ensure the safety of you, the driver, and any passengers in your vehicle,” said 2 Start.
“These checks help to ensure and maintain the roadworthiness of your vehicle, and you need to ensure that any defects are fixed before continuing with your journey, whether you spotted them before or during your travel.
“Additionally, completing regular maintenance inspections will increase the longevity of your fleet, as you will be able to spot any wear and tear, as well as any defects that your vehicle may have acquired along the way.”
The company underlined the importance of completing daily HGV walkaround checks before and after every journey.
“It is the responsibility of the driver to complete these checks and ensure the vehicle is safe to drive and fit for purpose,” it said.
“Some of the areas that you need to check on your daily walkarounds include mirrors and glass, dashboard warning lights and gauges, seatbelts, and that tyres and wheels are secure and have a tread depth of at least 1mm, to name a few.”
A full in-depth overview of all the areas that need to be checked can be found at the gov.uk website.
2 Start advised: “Consider reading the Government documents on categorisation of defects and the guide to maintaining roadworthiness, which are both excellent for fleet managers and HGV drivers and will provide a full understanding of the requirements.
The training provider particularly emphasises the importance of regular truck and trailer tyre pressure checks.
“Not only will this help prolong the lifespan of your vehicle’s tyres, it will ensure your safety while on the roads in all types of weather, but more importantly having the correct tyre pressures will help your truck reduce fuel consumption and save you money in the long term,” the firm continued.
“It should already be part of your daily checks anyhow, so why not pay a little more attention to this one check to save money.
“With all the recent heatwaves we have seen, its likely your tyres have expanded and released a certain amount of air naturally, now the temperatures have started to cool off, re-check their pressures.”
2 Start advised: “Do one thing this week – spot check all your fleet’s tyre pressures.”
The company also highlighted the benefits of correct training.
“There are many aspects that go into being an HGV driver, including ensuring your vehicle is safe and that the proper vehicle inspections have been completed, which is why you must receive the correct training to ensure you, your vehicle, and other road users are safe,” 2 Start continued.
“There are many courses that you can complete, including ones specific to vehicle inspections, as well as a number of other courses including our Driver CPC module on Vehicle Defects & Driver Licencing, which will teach candidates about the types of checks that drivers need to complete on their vehicles.
“Additionally, for those who are new to HGV driving, completing your HGV theory tests, practical training, and Initial CPC, will cover all aspects of HGV driving, including vehicle checks, and will give you the knowledge and skills you need to gain your HGV licence.”
The firm concluded by highlighting the potential fines and penalties that can be incurred by drivers who fail to complete the proper checks and inspections, with some even losing their licences.
“It is important for your safety and the safety of those around you that you complete the correct checks, which will help to reduce the risk of accidents and collisions occurring,” said 2 Start.
