Vehicle Checks must be completed for every HGV before they begin working each day, a requirement by both UK and Irish law. Checks are required for all types of vehicles including cars and vans. However, there are specific checks that must be carried out for lorries and HGVs before they begin their journey.
What Is A HGV Vehicle Check?
Commonly referred to as Daily Walkaround Checks, they must be carried out before each journey. The checks carried out by drivers must cover the whole vehicle, including the interior and exterior. Any trailers that are being towed must also be checked.
The results of checks and any defects found must be recorded and reported, with defects being repaired before the vehicle is driven.
How Long Should HGV Daily Checks Take?
The checks are simple to carry out but should not be limited by time. Thorough and comprehensive checks of the interior and exterior of the HGV should be completed. Many sources have quoted that vehicle checks take roughly 15 minutes, however, depending on the number of checks this may take longer.
When Should Checks Be Carried Out?
To maintain the safety of all road users and roadworthiness, the DVSA has advised checks my be completed:
- before a vehicle is driven every day
- if more than one driver uses a vehicle in a day, then each driver should carry out their own checks
Drivers should also monitor the condition of the vehicle during use and report any defects which may have developed.
Keeping A Record Of Daily Walkaround Checks
Drivers must record all of their checks using either paper forms or an electronic device. As completed checks must be stored, using paper can take up a lot of space and be difficult to manage. To combat this, we have developed a Mobile App where drivers can complete checks that are uploaded instantly to Velocity Fleet. If defects are discovered, then drivers can take a picture and upload them to Velocity. Find out more about our Daily Walkaround Check App.
Consequences Of Not Carrying Out Vehicle Checks?
The DVSA can stop and ask to see the Daily Walkaround Check for your vehicle, or request a copy to show you have carried out checks electronically.
If any defects are found on a vehicle during one of these checks, drivers can be prevented from driving until the defect is fixed and/or be issued with a fine.
Fuelwise HGV Daily Vehicle Checks
Using our Daily Vehicle Check app ensures all HGV Vehicle Checks are being carried correctly and in line with DVSA guidance.
Not only will you avoid fines, it will make your job easier.
Using the app, drivers record their checks and which are immediately uploaded to Velocity. Managers can choose to receive alerts of when defects are reported.
Marketing Manager at Fuelwise
Dominic has been covering the fuel and fleet management industry for over seven years, writing about Fuel Cards, Telematics, and Vehicle Cameras. In 2023 he was awarded the Excellence In Marketing award at the Causeway Chamber Business Awards, followed by the Best Use Of Social Media In Service/B2B at the 2024 NI Social Media Awards. You can connect with Dominic on LinkedIn here.
