Transport compliance
Walkaroundchecks.
Practical support to make daily vehicle checks, defect reporting and management follow-up work consistently.
How we can help
Make everycheck count.
JRich Transport Consultancy can help operators build a walkaround-check process that drivers understand and responsible people can monitor.
A signed form or digital record is only useful when the check is thorough, defects are reported promptly and vehicles are not returned to service until safety concerns have been dealt with appropriately.
- Reviewing the scope and sequence of daily checks
- Checking that drivers have suitable time, guidance and training
- Strengthening defect and nil-defect reporting
- Clarifying reporting lines and rectification responsibilities
- Sampling records to identify weak or repetitive reporting
- Following up recurring defects and missed checks
Frequently asked questions
Daily checksand defect reports.
These answers summarise general guidance. The check must reflect the vehicle, trailer, equipment and conditions in which they are used.
When should a walkaround check be completed?
A vehicle should be checked before it is used on the road. Current DVSA roadworthiness guidance states that at least one walkaround check should be carried out in every 24-hour period that the vehicle is in service, with additional checks where the type of work creates greater risk of damage or defects.
Should drivers record a nil-defect check?
DVSA guidance recommends a system that records or otherwise confirms that the daily check was completed even when no defect was found. This helps the operator demonstrate that the control is operating consistently.
Which defects need to be reported?
Defects found during the daily check and those noticed during the journey should be reported in writing through the operator’s system. A dangerous defect must be addressed before the vehicle continues its journey.
Can someone other than the driver carry out the check?
An operator can arrange for a designated responsible person to complete the check. The driver taking the vehicle still needs evidence that the check has been completed and must be satisfied that the vehicle is safe to drive.
How long should defect reports be retained?
Current DVSA roadworthiness guidance says driver defect reports and the associated rectification records should be retained for at least 15 months.
Check the current DVSA walkaround-check guidance and Guide to maintaining roadworthiness.
Start with a conversation
Are your daily checks working?
Discuss the current process, the quality of your records and where defect reporting needs to improve.