A. In the event of breakdown or faulty operation of equipment, the defect must be rectified as circumstances permit. If the vehicle is unlikely to return to base within a week, then the instrument must be repaired en-route.
If it had not become reasonably practicable for the equipment to be repaired by an approved fitter or workshop and those drivers use a print roll/chart to record all the relevant information manually (including periods of activity, signature and identification – driver card number/name/driving licence number), a statutory defence is provided.
Putting the brakes on
Q. Can a decelerometer be used to test trailer braking performance if there is a full report attached that has been signed off by a trained technician when there is no facilities for a laden roller brake test available?
A. A decelerometer is not an acceptable test method for a trailer as it would also measure the braking performance of the tractor unit pulling the trailer. The DVSA has extended the time frame for brake testing to be carried out before the date of a PMI up to 14 days to allow for greater flexibility that could be utilised to remain compliant with the laden roller brake testing requirements.
