VOSA to increase enforcement on vans

4th July 2013

Van operators who fail to comply with the regulations will be targeted by the authorities, delegates at the Freight Transport Association Van Excellence conference heard.

In his keynote speech at the FTA Van Excellence Conference in Sheffield, VOSA’s Head of Enforcement Policy Gordon Macdonald said VOSA was “determined to improve van operational standards and makes no secret of its intention to ramp up the number of roadside inspections and other enforcement activity.” 

The increase in enforcement is expected to include 20 additional roadside checks per quarter in major UK towns and cities, plus an information and compliance campaign to help vehicle operators.

In addition, Gordon Macdonald described the Van Excellence scheme as “an extremely good example of how the industry can take responsibility for itself”, and said accredited operators of the scheme were recognised by VOSA for demonstrating good practice in the industry. 

“Van Excellence contributes to improve road safety recognition, and is very beneficial in changing the public perception of the ‘white van man’.  The scheme ensures that better standards are met so that vehicles operate in a safe and viable way and therefore should be nurtured,” he said.

Van Excellence is an industry-led initiative that aims to enhance standards of van operator compliance, celebrate operators who demonstrate excellence and represent the interests of the van industry.