Regular vehicle inspections are crucial for road safety and ensuring the continued operation of commercial vehicles. For HGVs (Heavy Goods Vehicles), PSVs (Public Service Vehicles), and trailers operating in the UK, a 6-8 weekly inspection is a legal requirement.
This blog post outlines the key areas that should be covered during these inspections, drawing from the guidance provided by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
2. 6-8 Weekly Thorough Inspections (incorportating DVSA recommendations):
Engine Compartment:
- Belts and hoses
- Battery and connections
- Air and fuel filters
- Exhaust system
Undercarriage
- Suspension components
- Steering linkages
- Brake components (drums, discs, callipers)
- Exhaust system
Brakes:
- Brake performance test (road test or using a brake tester)
Steering:
- Steering play and response
Tyres:
- Thorough inspection of all tyres, including sidewalls
Lights and Signals:
- Function test of all lights and signals
Bodywork:
- Check for any damage or signs of wear and tear
Load Security:
- If applicable, check load securing equipment
3. Trailer-Specific Checks (aligned with DVSA best practices):
Coupling and Uncoupling Mechanisms:
- Check for proper operation and security
Brakes:
- Check brake operation and adjusters
Suspension:
- Inspect for any damage or signs of wear and tear
Tyres and Wheels:
- Check tyre pressures, tread depth, and condition
Lights and Signals:
- Check function of all lights and signals
4. Record Keeping:
Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all inspections. These records should include:
- Date and time of inspection
- Name of the person conducting the inspection
- Vehicle registration number
- Details of any defects found
- Actions taken to rectify defects
The image below showcases a portion of a completed 6-8 weekly HGV inspection carried out on Autocheck.
Simplifying Inspections with Autocheck
Autocheck is a user-friendly, cloud-based workshop and inspection system designed to streamline your vehicle maintenance processes. With a fixed monthly fee, you can:
- Easily add an unlimited number of vehicles and users.
- Create and customise digital inspection sheets specifically for 6-8 weekly checks, ensuring consistency and compliance with DVSA guidelines.
- Conduct inspections on any device.
- Capture images and videos of defects directly within the system.
- Generate automated reports and notifications.
- Track maintenance history and service schedules.
- Improve communication and collaboration between drivers, mechanics, and management.
By utilising Autocheck, you can significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of your 6-8 weekly inspections. Our system helps you:
- Reduce paperwork and administrative burden.
- Minimise the risk of missed inspections or overlooked defects.
- Improve vehicle uptime and reduce downtime.
- Demonstrate compliance with DVSA requirements.
Important Notes:
Defects: Any defects found during the inspection must be rectified promptly.
Professional Inspections: For more thorough inspections, consider engaging a qualified mechanic or vehicle inspector.
Legal Compliance: Adhering to these inspection requirements is crucial for legal compliance and to avoid fines and penalties.
By conducting regular and thorough inspections, and leveraging the power of Autocheck, you can help to ensure the safety and reliability of your HGVs, PSVs, and trailers, while also minimising the risk of breakdowns and costly repairs.
Contact us today for a free demo and see how Autocheck can transform your business.
