Britannia issues vehicle cleanliness warning
Companies operating fleets of trucks, vans or buses run the risk of thousands of pounds’ worth of fines and their vehicles being ordered off the roads if they fail to keep on top of their cleaning and maintenance, commercial vehicle cleaning specialist Britannia Wash Systems has warned.
Maintaining a clean fleet of commercial vehicles is an essential element of transport operations in any business, says the firm – not only to ensure the brand is well represented on the roads but to also ensure vehicles achieve regulatory compliance and operational efficiency as well as preserve the life of the vehicle.
Dave Barker, managing director of Smith Bros & Webb, has issued a warning to companies who fail to follow UK regulations which mandate that commercial vehicles, especially those involved in transporting food or hazardous materials, are kept impeccably clean and free from contaminants to safeguard their cargos.
Heavy mileage on the country’s roads results in unsightly vehicles which is offputting to clients and prospects, the company adds; the prospect of fresh or frozen food produce transported on a vehicle covered in grime from the roads is unlikely to appeal. In any case, such grime reduces a brand’s visibility and can also put drivers and vehicles at an increased risk of accidents, points out Britannia; regular cleaning of commercial fleets is imperative to ensure any risk is minimised and that they continually achieve their optimum performance.
With a pedigree spanning over 70 years, Britannia Wash Systems specialises in the design, manufacture and installation of highly automated vehicle wash systems for commercial vehicles which operate both throughout the UK and globally.
The Britannia expertise allows fleet operators to keep their fleet in pristine condition, the firm adds, with minimal downtime per vehicle and reduced impact on the environment and a cost-efficient service which allows businesses to hold on to their cash.
“In the UK specific regulations mandate that commercial vehicles, especially those involved in transporting food or hazardous materials, are kept clean,” said Dave Barker.
“But of course the sheer size and scale of lorries, every one of which almost without exception will be up against tight, regular deadlines, poses serious practical challenges for their operators.
“Commercial truck wash systems such as those offered by Britannia are the go-to solution to ensure your fleet remains safe and well-maintained and that your brand is well-represented to your customers, prospective customers and to the public in general.”
Dave warned of the hefty fines and penalties forced upon businesses who fail to keep their fleet well maintained.
“Vehicle wash systems ensure adherence to all relevant standards by keeping your fleet in optimum condition in line with regulatory requirements, thereby sparing your business from the costly repercussions of non-compliance.”
The Highway Code stipulates that ‘Windscreens and windows must be kept clean and free from obstructions to vision,’ points out Britannia, with fines of up to £2,500 for any business which fails to meet this obligation. The regulations extend to registration plates, with drivers whose plates are dirty facing on the spot fines of £100 under the Vehicle Excise and Registration Act 1994.
A build-up of dirt from the roads can also lead to corrosion and structural damage of a vehicle and its components, adds the company – increasing the chance of a failed MOT, heavy fines and even the withdrawal of an operator’s licence if a defective vehicle is pulled over by police.
Said Dave: “Some companies may find the regular washing of each of their vehicles a headache. Although it does take time out of the working day it can save operators a lot of financial pain and potentially catastrophic consequences if they run the risk of cutting corners and taking short cuts.”
The company also highlights its development of innovative recycling and conservation systems to reduce water usage and improve carbon footprint. Its Britannia Reclaim water-saving and recycling system integrates with a variety of washbays, helping vehicle operators reduce costs and improve efficiency.
Dave Barker said fleet operators could save thousands of pounds in energy bills by making the switch to a water recycling system.
“Most operators start to see the financial benefits almost immediately after installation and the savings keep adding up over time as there are no added costs in sourcing water from the mains,” he continued.
“In the long run a good system provides a very high return on investment… especially if you own a large fleet of commercial vehicles that require regular cleaning, or operate multiple locations throughout the country.”
