Routine Daily Checks for HGVs are an essential key way of keeping your vehicle, yourself and other road users safe on the roads. Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers play a pivotal role in the transportation industry, moving goods across vast distances. This article explores the significance of these checks and why they are important for the safe operation of HGVs.
What are routine daily checks for HGVs?
Regardless of the lorry type—be it articulated lorries, flatbed lorries, box lorries, or tanker lorries—HGV drivers must conduct a thorough routine check. This comprehensive assessment includes examining crucial components such as tyres, brakes, lights, fluids, and load securement. These pre-trip inspections serve as the first line of defence against potential issues, ensuring that the lorry is in optimal condition before hitting the road.
Tyre Checks for Stability and Performance:
Tyres are the foundation of any lorry, influencing stability, traction, and overall performance. HGV drivers should perform regular tyre checks, monitoring pressure, tread depth, and overall tyre condition. You also need to check that all mud guards are securely fixed to the vehicle and that the wheel nut markers are correctly aligned.
Lights and indicators
HGV drivers must routinely check headlights, taillights, indicators, and brake lights. Properly functioning lights enhance visibility, making the lorry more noticeable to other road users, particularly in low-light conditions.
Windows, mirrors and reflectors
Check that all your windows, mirrors and reflectors are clean and free of damage.
Check the levels
Regular checks on engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windscreen washer fluid are essential. Inadequate levels of these fluids can lead to engine overheating, brake failure, or compromised visibility. As well as checking windscreen washer fluid, also test the wipers to make sure they work well.
Fuel and oil leaks
Check underneath the vehicle for any obvious signs of fuel or oil leaks on the ground.
A secure load
Different lorries are designed to transport various types of cargo, and load securement is critical for all. HGV drivers must ensure that the cargo is properly secured. Regular checks during the journey help prevent load shifts, maintaining the stability of the lorry and minimising the risk of accidents.
Checks at work
Your employer will most likely give you a paper or online checklist to complete which gives an audit trail to show the condition of the vehicle before you used it. If you find any issues with the vehicle you would need to flag it with your transport manager so they can be dealt with.
A final point about routine daily checks for HGVs
These checks go beyond mere compliance; they are a commitment to ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of goods. By diligently inspecting your vehicle and checking these points, HGV drivers contribute to a safer road environment for themselves and other road users. Your employer will most likely give you a paper or online checklist to complete which gives an audit trail to show the condition of the vehicle before you used it. If you find any issues with the vehicle you would need to flag it with your transport manager so they can be dealt with. Find out more about the checks you should do on the Government website.
Routine checks if you’re a new HGV driver
Learning how to carry out these checks is a key part of your training to be an HGV driver. It’s something we cover in depth with every student to make sure that they are confident in ensuring the vehicle is safe. It’s also part of your driving test so it’s incredibly important that you know what you are doing. If you’re looking to become an HGV driver, book your training now.