DVSA rolls out changes to Individual Vehicle Approval inspections from October
The DVSA has warned over a major safety update to vehicle inspection manuals. Changes could be rolled out to the Individual Vehicle Approval inspection manual with a shake-up expected to come into force on October 9, next month.
This manual is for everyone who takes part in HGV examinations and maintenance and explains acceptable reasons for failure, application of specific relevant requirements and procedures and standards used during testing. You cannot buy printed copies of the manual from DVSA, but you’re allowed to print your own copies.
DVSA changes will affect the Individual Vehicle Approval inspection manual which sets out how DVSA examiners will inspect vehicles to make sure they meet the necessary standards. Sections modified include steering, speedomoters and reverse gears.
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Fuel tanks, installation of lights, and headlamps are also listed. The DVSA said it has provided detailed explanations for these changes in the release notes at the beginning of the manual. Each affected section includes a record of revision page.
This will offer specific information on the updates for drivers. It must be emphasised that these are minimum acceptable standards, which do not necessarily allow for further deterioration when the vehicle is in service.
Requirements for front airbags have also been revised for vehicles manufactured using parts of a registered vehicle. The DVSA detailed: "The installation of lights section now features a new Figure 4b, detailing requirements for multiple lamps to be considered as one."
The DVSA explained: "The scope of the inspections in this manual does not cover all the requirements of The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations and The Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations. Dual controls on vehicles will be inspected in the same manner as the primary controls although there will be no separate brake performance check.
"Drivers presenting vehicles for test must follow the instructions given by Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency staff. Radios and telephones must not be used whilst vehicles are undergoing test."