Annual test to include check on tacho seals
Page 10
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
4,1 by Sally Nash
The Vehicle Inspectorate will be incorporating a new tachograph seal check into the annual HGV test—possibly in the autumn—as the number of high-profile cases involving drivers hours and tachograph offences continues to grow.
Under the plan the seals of the tachographs heads will be inspected to ensure they are still intact. VI policy manager for heavy vehicles Roger Trubridge says: This will be a great boost to road safety." He is confident that the new visual check could be introduced quite quickly as it will not require any specific equipment apart from torches.
Norbert Dentressangle and Dukes Transport are just two big names that have recently been the subject of VI investigations into drivers' hours offences ( CM15-21 March).
However, plans to include a speed limiter check in the annual test are still at an early stage—Trubridge admits that they have been subject to a range of technical and administrative problems (CM 19-25 Oct 2000).
Last year the VI began trailing electronic equipment at two test stations but managers have now decided to hand over the design of the kit to a third-party and the VI is poised to invite tenders.
This suggests VI managers were not satisfied with the performance of the equipment during trials, but this is being played down. A spokeswoman says: We need to modify the kit."
The checks will probably come in during spring 2002 as a result of the delays.
Mobile roller brake testing is also at an early stage and the VI is to invite tenders for the supply of this equipment.