Modern HGV class 1 & class 2 drivers have a number of different responsibilities, from logging their time behind the wheel on their tachographs to safe loading and unloading of goods. Something else that needs your complete focus in this role is vehicle maintenance, which helps not only keep these huge machines working efficiently but also ensures that the roads remain safe for everyone.
There’s perhaps no bigger responsibility you have as a professional HGV driver than inspecting and maintaining your truck, and in this article, we take a closer look at the measures that give you the best possible chance of avoiding accidents and breakdowns.
Regular Maintenance Checks Are Key
When taking an HGV training course with HGVT, you’re given a comprehensive understanding of how to conduct vehicle maintenance and inspections. We can’t stress how important these checks are and they take several forms, which include:
- Pre-drive inspections – a comprehensive walk-around check to ensure roadworthiness before every journey that is made.
- Daily operational checks – a daily check of tyres and examination of critical systems like brakes, lights, and indicators.
- Daily fluid level checks – to ensure that your engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and windscreen washer fluids are at the right levels.
- A 6-week inspection – a thorough preventative measure, covering all aspects of your vehicle to ensure it can pass its MOT.
- Safety Equipment checks – these periodic inspections ensure equipment such as fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and warning triangles are present and in good condition.
Regular maintenance tasks are also part of your remit as an or Class 2 driver meaning you’ll need to stay on top of things like oil changes, air filter replacements, and automatic slack and brake adjustments. They’re all vital to keep the vehicle operating smoothly and safely.
HGV Drivers Need to Have Real Attention to Detail
In addition to carrying out routine checks and maintenance, HGV drivers also need to have a heightened awareness of changes in how their vehicles are running. What we mean by that is if you hear any strange noises or signs of possible wear and tear or an unbalanced load, you should address them asap.
This kind of attention to detail can be key in ensuring small issues don’t grow into larger, more costly repair issues. Furthermore, dealing with problems early also greatly reduces the chances of an accident or a breakdown from happening.
Learning The Ins & Outs of Your Trade With HGVT
The fact is that maintenance and checks are central to the role of an HGV driver. You may not be responsible for the repair of major mechanical issues with your truck, but you do play an important role in ensuring all possible preventative measures are taken to avoid them. At the same time, you’re making sure your truck is roadworthy, and in turn, doing your part to keep the roads safer for all motorists.
Maintaining a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) is not just about keeping the vehicle running smoothly; it’s a critical aspect of ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with the law. For HGV drivers, regular maintenance of their trucks is a top priority for several reasons.