Investigating van rental
Page 66
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
As a vehicle examiner I found the article "CM investigates van rental" (CM January 3) interesting reading, but in no way surprising.
The article brought a smile to my face on several occasions, but the biggest laugh came when I read the Godfrey Davis reply in which they appeared surprised at the faults found ONLY 2,854 miles after passing the annual test. How far removed from reality some transport people seem to be. I have examined vehicles within HOURS of passing the DoE test and found as many faults as indicated in your article.
With the fifth anniversary of operators' licensing coming up next month one would expect most trans port people to have an understanding of its requirements, particularly to vehicle inspection. However, the fact is that many operators are still ignorant of the inspection requirements. This statement can be confirmed by reading reports in the pages of your own magazine of cases brought before the Licensing Authority courts.
I agree with the remark made by the FTA inspector that faults can easily be missed when using a "Check List" system of inspection. A round-thevehicle system is by far the best method, making a note of faults found rather than just ticking off a check list.
BARRY WILKINSON Sandbach, Cheshire,