West Midlands Traffic Commissioner Nick Denton, banned a plant and tool hire firm from operating HGVs for 12 months after describing its vehicle maintenance procedures as one of the worst he had seen. Vehicles were operated in an “appalling condition” according to the Traffic Commissioner. In addition to the poor condition of the vehicles they also failed to comply with drivers’ hours and tachograph rules. The O-licence was revoked on 30 January. The Transport Manager at the company was also disqualified for two years and the director disqualified from holding or obtaining an O-licence for a period of 12 months. An investigation by the DVSA was undertaken after a prohibition was issued for five loose wheel nuts across two wheels; an inoperative indicator; brake pipe issues and an oil leak. The DVSA examiner found that the driver defect reporting system was ineffective and maintenance inspections were not carried out at the intervals required. The MoT pass rate was poor and the Transport Manager did not have the control required over the business’s transport activities. Ensuring vehicles are roadworthy and drivers comply with drivers’ hours is essential to maintain should be a given and the recent case of a Tipper truck brake failure in the City of Bath Tipper highlights why there can be no excuse for failing to supervise drivers’ hours or ensure effective vehicle defect reporting from drivers. Source: Commercial Motor