Often referred to as:
Pre-use inspections
Walk Around Checks
Vehicle Safety checks
Regardless of the name, the task is still the same. The driver/operator of the vehicle must ensure it is in a safe condition before operating.
The driver is always legally responsible for the condition of the vehicle while in use (Including third-party trailers).
CONDUCTING A WALKAROUND CHECK IS VITAL PART OF THE DRIVER’S ROLE!
Requirements:
HGV & PSV Operators in Northern Ireland must ensure their vehicles are operated in a roadworthy condition.
When operators submitted an operator licence application in NI to the Transport Regulation Unit (TRU) they signed an Operator’s Licence declaration and declared to the department that their vehicles would be operated in a fit and serviceable condition.
All businesses have a duty to Health and Safety to ensure their staff are provided safe working equipment that is good working order and properly maintained.
Drivers must be trained on how to adequately complete a daily walkaround check. This is best done upon induction.
Why is it important?
Conducting a daily walkaround check helps identify and hazards or potential hazards which helps prevent Road Traffic Collisions where people may cause injuries or fatalities to other road users. A driver identifying a defective tyre before commencing his journey may prevent a blowout on the motorway.
If vehicles are driven in an unsafe manner, you and your staff may receive a Fixed Penalty Notice or be prosecuted, and your vehicles may be issued with a PG9 prohibitions.
A prohibition is just that, it prohibits the use of the vehicle. They can be immediate or delayed (Maximum 10 days) depending on the severity of the defect identified. To remove a prohibition a vehicle examiner must be satisfied that the defect has been repaired.
How long must you keep driver walk round check records?
Daily walkaround check records must be kept for 15 months.
What to check?
The daily walkaround check should check several interior and exterior items.
The department has listed 27 items to check...
Front view (mirrors, cameras, and glass)
Windscreen wipers and washers
Dashboard warning lights and gauges
Steering
Horn
Brakes and air build-up
Height marker
Seat belts and cab interior
Security and condition of cab, doors and steps
Check inside the vehicle
Lights and indicators
Fuel and oil leaks
Security of body and wings
Battery security and condition
Diesel exhaust fluid (AdBlue)
Excessive engine exhaust smoke
High voltage emergency cut-off switch
Alternative fuel systems and isolation
Spray suppression
Tyres and wheel fixing
Brake lines and trailer parking brake
Electrical connections
Coupling security
Security of load
Number plate
Reflectors
Markings and warning
For more details on what to check click here:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/carry-out-daily-heavy-goods-vehicle-hgv-walkaround-checks
Methods:
The requirements for daily walkaround checks can be met by drivers completing a traditional defect report paper book or by using a digital paperless app on a smartphone.
For more information on a driver’s digital app click the below link: