Fuel tankers are large delivery vehicles carrying dangerous materials and so require a high-level of care to ensure that they are working to optimum standard. The law requires drivers of such vehicles to carry out daily walkaround checks, inspecting various aspects of the vehicle to ensure everything is working as it should be.

This daily walkaround check must be recorded, a task which is often seen as onerous and filled with paperwork. Frequently, issues arise with regards to poor handwriting preventing some of the information being read or paperwork getting lost or damaged in the cab. As such, companies are looking to new technology to find ways to improve this process.

That’s where the Fuel Pod app comes in – which as well as offering electronic proof of delivery, also includes vehicle inspection software, allowing drivers to digitally record the checks they have completed.

What checks need to be carried out?

The Drivers and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) requires all HGV drivers to check the following parts of the vehicle before driving:

• Front view clear
• Steering
• Horn
• No excessive engine exhaust smoke
• Windscreen wipers and washers
• Warning lamp
• Lights and indicators
• No fuel or oil leaks
• Coupling security
• Battery security and condition
• Security of body and wings
• Spray suppression system in place
• Tyres and wheel fixing
• Reflectors
• Markers
• Number plates
• Security of load
• Brake lines
• Electronic connections
• Mirrors and glass
• Brakes 

The benefits of using digital vehicle inspection software:

Nowadays, many fuel suppliers outsource delivery to other companies. In doing so they are placing a significant amount of trust in the drivers to ensure that legal obligations are met. Using the Fuel Pod technology allows for the daily walkaround checks, legally required by DVSA, to be logged. The app will record the time and location of where and when the checks took place and will also show if the vehicle had been moved prior to the checks being undertaken. This information is fed to a back-office system in real-time allowing for businesses to know that checks have taken place and rectify the issue if they have not.

These checks are also stored locally on the device, so if a driver is pulled over for a roadside check to be completed the software can create a DVSA approved statement certifying that the daily check took place. This increases efficiency and gets your vehicle moving onto its next delivery as quickly as possible.

Furthermore, images from the checks can also been sent back by the drivers, so if a problem is identified replacement parts are ordered or the vehicle is booked in for repairs – increasing efficiency and reducing the potential time the vehicle might be off the road costing the business money.

Failure to comply with the DVSA requirements regarding daily checks can lead to prosecution, penalty points for the driver and a fine.

There are many benefits to the Fuel Pod system and the vehicle inspection software is just one of them – giving you the security of knowing that your vehicles are operating as effectively and safely as can be.

If you think the Fuel Pod could benefit your business, then get in touch with us today by calling 0161 874 5050 or emailing enq@touchstar.co.uk.