Fleet Vehicle Compliance: Vehicle pre-use check or pre-journey inspection
Fleet vehicle compliance, a guide by Stephen Buckley, Sales Manager, Fleetmaxx Solutions in Burnley
CheckedSafe replaces the traditional paper-based daily vehicle check by allowing drivers to complete a Daily Walk Around Check or Vehicle Pre-Use Check via an app on their smartphone. This digital approach improves the efficiency of the check process. Once submitted, the check results are sent in real-time via email and are accessible through the CheckedSafe CMS (Compliance Management System).
Fleet vehicle in-service Compliance:
In-service check
If multiple drivers use the same vehicle throughout the day, each driver must ensure the vehicle is roadworthy and safe to drive by conducting their own inspection before taking control.
In-service defect reporting
Should a defect arise during the day, drivers can report the issue in real-time via the CheckedSafe app. This allows the depot to quickly assess whether the vehicle is safe to continue operating or requires immediate attention.
Accident reporting
Accidents are an unfortunate reality. In the aftermath, it is crucial to collect as much information as possible from the scene. Insurance companies refer to this as the “Golden Hour,” the period immediately following an incident when the most accurate and useful data can be gathered.
The CheckedSafe Accident Report Template acts as a digital bump card, enabling drivers to instantly capture and submit essential details post-accident, ensuring immediate reporting and response.
Fleet vehicle compliance: Drivers and vehicles
Drivers
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (1999) require employers to manage workplace health and safety effectively. This includes assessing all risks to employees at work, as well as risks affecting others due to business activities.
Fleet management relies on clear communication with drivers to ensure they are:
- Competent, alert, and in good health
- Sufficiently trained and aware of company policies
- In possession of a valid driving licence
Vehicles
Vehicle safety and maintenance are core aspects of fleet management. The new HSE guidelines include a work-related road safety checklist, providing best practices for ensuring vehicles are fit for purpose and maintained in a roadworthy condition.
Key considerations include:
- Ensuring vehicles do not exceed maximum load weight
- Securing all contents and equipment properly
- Conducting Pre-Use or Pre-Journey Inspections
- Implementing a robust preventive maintenance schedule
Fleet Vehicle Compliance and legal risks
Charges
Employers may face legal action under health and safety law, Corporate Manslaughter charges, or road traffic law violations. Drivers can also face serious charges, including causing death by dangerous or careless driving.
Litigation risks
Beyond legal risks, employers may face civil litigation if an accident involving a work-related vehicle results in injury or damage. Many legal firms pursue these cases on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis, increasing the risk of costly lawsuits.
Fleet vehicle compliance: Balance of responsibility
Work-related road safety is a shared responsibility between employer and employee. Proper planning is essential to ensure fleet vehicle compliance while maintaining operational efficiency.
By using the CheckedSafe App, businesses can streamline compliance, enhance safety, and reduce risks effortlessly.
Fleet vehicle compliance: How Fleetmaxx Solutions can help
Fleetmaxx Solutions supports businesses in achieving full fleet vehicle compliance. Checksafe our vehicle compliance app has standard and tailored checks for fleet vehicles ensure you meet all safety and legal requirements while improving operational efficiency.
For more information, please reach out to us at 01367 704 910.
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