This week’s blog focuses on the importance of safety whilst operating an HGV and more importantly the walk-around checks you must do before entering in the vehicle. The walk-around checks consist of a series of specific observations of a certain part of the vehicle to ensure it’s all safe and compliant.
There are 21 checks which should be completed, as listed below:
- Lights and indicators
Assess that all your lights and indicators are working correctly.
- Tyres and wheels
Confirm that all nuts are sufficiently tight, the wheels and tyres are properly fastened, and the tread and pressure of the tyres are within the permitted range.
- Front view
Make sure you have a clear vision and that nothing within your cab is blocking your windscreen.
- Steering
Confirm that the steering wheel moves freely and is not jammed.
- Load
Ensure that the load is stable and well distributed, that it does not cause your vehicle to lean to one side, and that it is not too heavy to prevent your vehicle from falling toward the ground.
- . Engine exhaust
Make sure there isn’t excess smoke coming out of your exhaust.
- Windscreen wipers and washers
Make sure your wipers work correctly and that the washer fluid is filled up.
- Warning lamp
Test the effectiveness of your warning lamp.
- Mirrors and glass
Make sure you can see them well, they aren’t broken or covered in stickers, and they aren’t steamy. Additionally, make sure the mirrors are pointed correctly to provide you with the best visibility.
- Fuel/oil
Make sure there are no oil or fuel leaks.
- Coupling security
Ensure that your vehicle is firmly connected to your load.
- Number plate
Ensure your number plate is visible and attached to the vehicle.
- Body/wings
Ensure that nothing could fall off or come loose during transportation, including the body and wing mirrors of your vehicle. The bumper and grill are included in this.
- Spray suppression
Ensure that your spray suppression measures are attached correctly and are working.
- Brakes
Make sure that your breaks and break lines are working.
- Reflectors
Ensure that reflectors are visible and attached.
- Markers
Confirm the visibility and attachment of markers.
- Battery
Assess the safety and condition of your battery.
- Doors
Confirm the security of all of your doors.
- Horn
Test the functionality of your horn.
- Electrical connections
Assess the functionality of the vehicle’s electrical components.
What happens if a driver does not complete the following checks before entering the vehicle?
If checks are not completed correctly by the driver before starting the vehicle, the driver could face potential penalties, and points on the driver’s license, or the lorry can be taken off the road completely.
To see how one of our drivers performs his HGV checks on one of our lorries, visit here to watch Harvey on our YouTube channel…