Ensuring roadworthiness with a TMS

Neglecting this responsibility can lead to severe consequences, including fines and endangerment of fellow road users. In this week’s blog, we’re exploring how a Transport Management System (TMS) can streamline roadworthiness procedures and enhance safety measures.

Understanding “roadworthiness”

“Roadworthiness means – complying with the appropriate vehicle construction, road safety, environmental and operating standards required by the law in the UK.”

– Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency

Operating an unroadworthy vehicle is a criminal offense. With a best-in-class transport management system, businesses can uphold their duty of care, ensuring compliance while safeguarding drivers and others on the road.

Walkaround checks

Always remember; it is your organisation’s responsibility to check that your vehicles are safe to drive. Before your drivers embark on a journey, it’s important that they carry out daily walkaround checks.

Utilising a comprehensive TMS, drivers can systematically inspect key areas of the vehicle, promptly reporting any defects to the relevant personnel. This proactive approach prevents non-roadworthy vehicles from being deployed for assignments – mitigating potential risks.

Maintenance scheduling

Once all the necessary information is gathered by the TMS on the smartphone application, the details are then uploaded to the Cloud in real-time and can be instantly assessed by back-office staff. Maintenance items can be scheduled and the full history is kept by vehicle/trailer.

Efficient maintenance scheduling is vital in preserving vehicle functionality and minimising the risk of mechanical failures. By scheduling key maintenance checks with a digital software solution, you can ensure optimal conditions for critical components, such as brakes and tires, promoting overall roadworthiness and safety compliance.

Vehicle allocation optimisation

Appropriate vehicle allocation can also help improve the overall roadworthiness of your fleet. This prevents vehicles from being used for jobs that they aren’t designed for, possibly reducing wear and tear, as well as potential avoidable strain on vehicles.

TMS platforms facilitate informed decision-making. The software can optimise vehicle allocation for improved roadworthiness by matching vehicles to specific jobs based on payload requirements and route characteristics.

Smart route planning

Smart route planning within a TMS is crucial for protecting HGVs from potential hazards and minimising the risk of vehicle damage. By leveraging real-time data and dynamic routing algorithms, operators can identify risky areas along routes and avoid them – reducing the likelihood of accidents and delays.

These systems offer customisable routing preferences, integration with GIS technology and real-time monitoring with alerts to keep businesses informed of changing conditions. By optimising routes for safety and efficiency, operators can enhance driver safety, minimise vehicle damage and ensure timely delivery of goods to customers. This ultimately improves operational performance and reduces costs associated with maintenance and repairs.

TrackTrans

TrackTrans TMS provides businesses with real-time visibility and data accessibility, enabling informed decision-making to optimize fleet efficiency and safety. By implementing our solution, transport managers uphold their duty of care obligations, fostering a culture of safety and compliance while protecting drivers and road users alike.

Stay on top of your fleet’s roadworthiness and try TrackTrans’ free demo today.