RHA is calling on operators to review their maintenance systems, update training protocols, and ensure all documentation aligns with the newly updated DVSA Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness.
The guide has introduced several critical updates aimed at enhancing vehicle safety, compliance, and operational efficiency for commercial goods and public service vehicle operators.
RHA has outlined the major changes to the guide on its website and their implications for fleet operators, maintenance providers, and transport managers.
Detailed Breakdown of Updates
1. Maintaining Compliance (Section 1.1):
- Clarification from Traffic Commissioners: Emphasises that “fit and serviceable” conditions may exceed MOT standards.
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Now explicitly included under the “means of operation” in braking systems.
- Alternative Maintenance Systems: Operators may use different systems if they can demonstrate equivalent or superior compliance.
2. Daily Walkaround Checks (Section 3)
- Arduous Conditions: Vehicles operating in off-road or high-wear environments may now require additional checks during the day.
- Driver Changeovers: New guidance allows for flexibility in checks during driver swaps, provided a robust defect reporting system is in place.
- Third-Party Trailers: Clarified responsibilities for traction-only operators, including access to inspection records and MOT certificates.
3. Maintenance Provision Rating Scheme (Section 5)
- MPRS Objective Update: The scheme aims to improve maintenance practices across the industry.
- Workshop Accreditation: Stronger encouragement for workshops to achieve recognized quality standards.
4. Braking Performance Assessment (Section 5.3):
- There is an expectation that every effort is made to conduct a laden roller brake test, which is the most effective measure of brake performance.
Mandatory Brake Testing:
Every safety inspection must include a brake performance assessment using:
- Laden roller brake test (RBT)
- Electronic Brake Performance Monitoring System (EBPMS)
- Decelerometer with temperature readings
Risk Assessments:
- Required when laden brake tests are not feasible. Must be completed by a competent person and retained for 15 months.
Minimum Testing Frequency:
- At least four laden brake tests per year, evenly spaced, unless the operation is covered by an acceptable reason for not conducting a laden roller brake test
5. EBPMS Parking Brake Assessment (Section 5.4)
- Expanded Guidance: Introduces a five-step process for verifying parking brake performance using EBPMS.
Implications for Operators
- Compliance Monitoring: Operators must update their Vehicle Operator Licensing (VOL) records to reflect any changes in inspection frequency or maintenance arrangements.
- Training and Documentation: Enhanced emphasis on driver and technician training, especially regarding ADAS, EBPMS, and brake testing.
- Digital Systems: Encouragement to adopt electronic maintenance systems that meet DVSA’s audit and data integrity standards.
