A best practice norm to be implemented in all fleet vehicles is preventative maintenance: this consists of walk-around checks as well as performing scheduled checks. Something that is necessary in order not only to make drivers and everyone on the road safer, but also to cut on costs, keep vehicles roadworthy and comply with legal requirements.
Daily vehicle checks are a straightforward practice that all drivers should incorporate into their routine at the beginning of their shift before they set off. These regular vehicle checks (walk-around checks) provide an opportunity to spot any defects and potential problems, making sure the vehicle is in sound working order. It is also hopefully helps remind the driver to adopt a more safety conscious approach when driving.
The Health and Safety Authority, Road Safety Authority and An Garda Síochána of Ireland have worked out some useful guidelines which are globally valid in order to assist employers in managing vehicle risks. Here are some of the videos they have produced to help you understanding how a walk-around check has to be performed in different types of vehicles:
1 - Van Checks
a video to demonstrate a list of things that should be examined and ticked off by the driver as part of a walk-around check for commercial vans (that do not require a tachograph) every time he sets off or takes over the vehicle from a colleague.
2 - Bus Checks
a similar video demonstrating the walk-around checks that a bus driver should carry out on a Public Service Vehicle prior to setting off, paying particularly attention to the safety features to protect passengers inside the vehicle.
3 - Car Checks
some people might be tempted to be complacent as regards to walk-around checks and cars, but that would be a mistake—this video highlights the kinds of things that should still be examined and ticked off in much the same way as the previous two videos.
If you want to know more, feel free to contact us or to download one of the daily walk-around checks we created for your fleet operations.
