VOSA report puts tyres in the spotlight
24th March 2011
The latest VOSA effectiveness report shows that ‘condition of tyres’ remains the most frequent prohibition defect at spot checks on light goods vehicles across the country. But worryingly, the incidence rate has increased from 20% in 2007/08 and in 08/09 to just under 26% in 2009/10.
“Van tyres lead a particularly hard life, so it is critical that operators regularly check the condition of their tyres for signs of damage or premature and uneven wear,” comments Stuart Jackson, the chairman of TyreSafe. “Building site debris or regular scuffing on kerbs during delivery drops can cause significant damage.
Responsibility for the condition of tyres lies both with the van driver and the business itself. Drivers should ensure the tyres are in roadworthy before setting off each day. Indeed, drivers found to be driving on illegal tyres risk a personal fine of £2,500 and three points for each illegal tyre.
Business owners have a duty of care obligation to provide their employees with a safe working environment, which includes the provision of safe and roadworthy vehicles. Under the Health & Safety Offences Act (2009), UK courts have greater authority to prosecute businesses for committing offences such as fitting illegal tyres or faulty brakes. The maximum penalty has increased from £5,000 to £20,000.
In addition to the punitive risks, businesses also face a number of additional costs by failing to look after their tyres properly. Under-inflated tyres will not only wear out quicker, but the vehicle’s fuel economy deteriorates. Vehicle downtime at the roadside or in the workshop changing or repairing tyres means the vehicle is not earning money, and if deliveries are delayed, this can trigger penalty payments to customers.
“I would urge all LCV operators, large or small, to ensure they have robust procedures in place to regularly check the condition of their fleet’s tyres,” Stuart Jackson added.
To help businesses and van users understand their responsibilities towards tyre care and the key tyre safety issues they need to consider, TyreSafe has launched a dedicated van tyre safety section on its website at www.tyresafe.org.