As of Monday, 23rd April 2018 there is a new edition to the DVSA’s “Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness” which features a number of major changes.
A brief summary of the major changes is as follows:
- The Inspection table in Annex 4 has been updated following feedback to cover a vast range of time-based frequencies for vehicle inspections.
- Information related to IT systems used in Vehicle Maintenance Systems, as well as information on Electronic Braking Performance Monitoring Systems available in other guide has been directly incorporated into the latest version of the guide.
- Facilities used for inspections & maintenance are recommended to obtain a form of recognised quality standard; such as IRTE’s accreditation scheme.
- Following a steady rise in reports of Tyre Defects by road-side enforcers, greater detail has been given of their maintenance and upkeep.
- It is strongly advised that a laden roller brake test is now used during every safety inspection. In the event a road test is used, brake temperature readings should be recorded as part of the inspection.
- In light of the DVSA crackdown on AdBlue cheats, greater detail is given to Emissions testing and the legislation surrounding this offence.
- Details covering the changes to the Earned Recognition Scheme brought about by the EU Roadworthiness Directive and new prohibition assessment criteria are covered.
- An updated driver defect report; covering AdBlue systems checks and vehicle height.
- An updated safety inspection report; covering brake temperature readings and the report sign-off.
- Advice covering the use of the Vehicle Operator Licensing system (VOL) with a view to maintenance updates.
- An updated version of the Public Service Vehicle Accessibility Regulations guidance.
We strongly recommend that all operators download the latest version of this guide and review it against your existing systems in great detail as the DVSA has shown to be proactive in recent month of these new guidelines and requirements; leading to many an operator being called to Public Inquires for failings under their Operator’s License Undertakings.
