A coach operator, whose staff were prosecuted at Crown-Court over false tachograph records is now facing a two-day public inquiry in Leeds on December 1. The Office of the Traffic Commissioner for the North of England has set up the inquiry to consider action against the coach operator.

The commissioner will hear evidence from the operator, Transport Manager and the DVSA examiner(s) before deciding if action should be taken against the operator’s licence and/or Transport Manager.

The Commissioner can reduce the number of vehicles on a licence or suspend or revoke a licence. He can also disqualify a licence holder or individuals named on the licence.

Earlier this year, the company director pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice and drivers admitted creating false tachograph records. Following these convictions, Northumberland County Council terminated all of its contracts with the company.

Compliance with tachograph regulations and drivers' hours should be a given for any professional transport operation. For help in managing drivers' hours for 25p per driver per day see Smartanalysis.

Source: Northumberland Gazette