Parma: how to prevent wheel loss
Wheel safety specialist Parma Group has provided guidance for operators on how to safeguard against wheel loss, a serious issue that requires investigation and can result in fines.
“It’s estimated that between 150 and 400 wheel detachments occur in the UK annually,” said the company.
“Of these, three to seven result in fatal accidents, with many more causing serious injuries.
“The causes of these incidents vary, but at their core are preventable issues. A loose wheel nut is a problem that should no longer occur, given the precautions available today. Unfortunately, not all companies are aware of the solutions they can adopt to address this.
“At Parma Group, our mission is to make wheel loss a thing of the past.”
Wheel indicators offer a means of helping to protect against this, says the company.
“Parma Group offers a wide range of brightly coloured wheel indicators, available in sizes from 17 to 42 mm. Many fleets use these indicators as a first line of defence, relying on drivers to check them before and after every journey.
“While this practice should be standard, it does leave room for human error. Additionally, if a nut becomes loose during a journey, indicators alone may not provide adequate protection.”
For greater security, Parma Group provides wheel nut locks – devices designed to fit over two adjacent wheel nuts, forming a physical lock to prevent nut movement and wheel detachment.
“Key wheel nut lock products include Prolock, the ultimate choice for reliability and protection, with over 25 years of proven performance in Europe and TÜV approval,” said Parma Group.
“Prolock clamps are easy to install using a matching tool, are made from durable mild steel, and come in sizes ranging from 19 to 33 mm.”
The company also offers the Zafety Lug Lock, a reusable option made from tough, flexible plastic.
“Available in five colours and four sizes (to fit 27–33 mm wheel nuts on 104 mm spacing), its flexible design ensures easy fitting without interfering with the centre hub on rear wheels.
“Both Prolock and Zafety Lug Lock can be used alongside wheel indicators for maximum protection. This combination minimises the risk of wheel nut rotation and ensures that if a nut loses torque, the indicator alerts the driver during routine checks.”
Wheel detachment can also result from end-component failure, says the company, which is harder to detect.
“To address this, Parma Group now stocks Hot Spot Markers. These adhesive temperature labels are applied to the external metallic side of the wheel hub bearing housing.
“If the temperature exceeds 180°C, part of the marker turns orange and remains that way until the issue is resolved and the marker replaced. This innovation ensures that temperature-related issues are flagged during driver checks, even after the overheating incident.
“Wheel safety is a critical responsibility, whether you manage a single vehicle or an entire fleet. The consequences of neglecting this responsibility can be catastrophic.
“By adopting Parma Group’s range of innovative products, you can significantly reduce the risk of wheel detachment and ensure the safety of your vehicles, drivers, and other road users.”
