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Understanding HGV and PSV Walkaround Checks: A Guide for Drivers

If you operate a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) or a Public Service Vehicle (PSV), keeping your vehicle in top shape is not just a good practice—it’s a legal requirement. One of the key steps to ensuring vehicle safety is the daily walkaround check. In this blog, we’ll explain what these checks involve, why they’re important, what would happen if you’re caught without carrying out a daily walkaround inspection and how you can carry them out effectively.

Essential Resources for Drivers

To assist you in carrying out walkaround checks effectively, below are some helpful documents available for download:

• Download DVSA driver recommendation documents: Official guidelines from the DVSA to ensure your checks meet regulatory standards.
• Download walkaround check diagram: A visual guide to the key areas of the vehicle that should be inspected.
• Download example driver check: A sample check sheet to help you record your walkaround checks accurately.

What is a Walkaround Check?

A walkaround check is a routine pre-use inspection carried out by drivers before taking a vehicle onto the road. The aim is to ensure that the vehicle is roadworthy, meets safety standards, and is free from any defects that could pose a risk. These checks are mandatory for both Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) and Public Service Vehicles (PSVs). The checks are quick but thorough and form an essential part of a driver’s daily routine.

Why are Walkaround Checks So Important?

Walkaround checks are more than just a legal obligation; they are crucial for road safety and operational efficiency. Regular inspections help with:

• Preventing Accidents: Identifying defects early can prevent breakdowns and potentially catastrophic incidents.
• Maintaining Compliance: Adhering to Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) regulations helps avoid fines and penalty points.
• Avoiding Costly Repairs: Addressing issues promptly reduces the risk of severe damage that could be more expensive to fix.
• Protecting Your Business: Ensuring vehicle safety can prevent your company’s operating licence from being jeopardised.

What Happens if a Driver is Caught Without Doing a Walkaround Check?

Failing to carry out walkaround inspections can lead to serious consequences for both drivers and operators. Here’s what could happen if a driver is caught without completing a walkaround check:

• Fines and Penalty Points: Drivers may receive on-the-spot fines if stopped by authorities such as the DVSA or the police. If defects that could have been identified during a check are found, the fines could be substantial. Serious violations may also result in penalty points on the driver’s licence.
• Prohibition Notices: A vehicle may be issued with a prohibition notice if it is found to have defects, preventing it from being used until repairs are made. Notices can be immediate for dangerous defects or delayed for less severe issues.
• Vehicle Seizure: In extreme cases, if the vehicle is in a dangerous condition, authorities may seize the vehicle, leading to disruption and additional costs.
• Impact on Operator’s Licence: The operator’s licence and reputation can be affected, potentially leading to warnings, suspensions, or even licence revocation if a pattern of non-compliance is found.
• Legal Prosecution: If an unroadworthy vehicle is involved in an accident, the driver and company may face legal prosecution, especially if injuries occur. Serious cases can lead to criminal charges.
• Employer Disciplinary Action: Many companies have policies requiring daily checks. Failure to comply could lead to warnings, suspension, or even dismissal.

How Autocheck Can Help with Walkaround Checks

At Autocheck, we offer a comprehensive workshop and inspection system designed for the trucking industry, including features for carrying out driver walkaround checks. With Autocheck system, you can:

• Digitise Inspections: Record walkaround checks electronically, ensuring accurate and easily accessible documentation.
• Automate Defect Reporting: Instantly flag any issues that need attention, streamlining the repair process.
• Ensure Compliance: Our system is designed in accordance with DVSA regulations, helping you meet legal requirements effortlessly.
• Schedule Maintenance: Track vehicle condition over time and schedule preventative maintenance.

Conclusion

Carrying out daily walkaround checks is a small task that can make a big difference. With the right tools and knowledge, drivers can maintain vehicle safety, comply with regulations, and avoid costly repairs. At Autocheck, we are committed to helping you achieve these goals through our tailored inspection system. Make the most of our platform to digitise your walkaround checks and keep your fleet roadworthy.

Stay safe on the road, and remember—prevention is always better than cure.

For more information on how Autocheck can support your business, feel free to contact us or explore our services further.