The Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness (GTMR) has been updated, bringing significant changes to how operators maintain their commercial vehicles and, crucially, impacting Operator Licence Compliance. These updates clarify existing regulations, introduce new best practices, and strengthen the link between vehicle maintenance and the responsibilities of Transport Managers and operators. Staying compliant with these changes is essential for avoiding penalties and ensuring the safety of your drivers and the public.

The GTMR outlines the legal requirements and industry best practices for maintaining the roadworthiness of commercial vehicles. This encompasses everything from daily driver checks and routine maintenance to comprehensive inspections and meticulous record-keeping. The recent revisions significantly bolster several key areas:

Key Updates for Enhanced Operator Licence Compliance:

• Strengthened Guidance from Traffic Commissioners: The updated GTMR incorporates explicit guidance from Traffic Commissioners, highlighting their expectations regarding vehicle maintenance. This clarifies how the GTMR forms a cornerstone of their regulatory oversight and how operators' maintenance systems will be assessed during licence applications and compliance checks. Failing to meet these requirements can directly impact your Operator Licence.
• Comprehensive Driver Check Guidance: The guide provides more detailed and explicit instructions on the responsibilities of drivers in conducting thorough pre-use vehicle checks. This emphasis on driver involvement is vital, as robust driver reporting contributes significantly to proactive maintenance and early detection of potential problems. Properly documented driver checks are key evidence of due diligence in maintaining compliance.
• Clarified Brake Assessments and Risk Assessments: The updated GTMR provides clearer requirements for brake assessments, emphasising the necessity of regular checks and the correct procedures for recording findings. Crucially, the guide highlights the importance of risk assessments when a laden brake test cannot be conducted. This underscores a proactive approach to safety, a key factor in maintaining a clean Operator Licence.
• Electronic Brake Performance Monitoring Systems (EBPMS): The new guidance offers specific advice on using and maintaining Electronic Brake Performance Monitoring Systems. Understanding and effectively utilising EBPMS data is critical for preventative maintenance and demonstrating compliance.
• Laden Brake Tests: The importance of a laden brake test in each safety inspection cannot be overstated. The revised GTMR clarifies the circumstances under which a risk assessment can be substituted, outlining the precise information that needs to be recorded and the justification for not performing a laden test. This detailed guidance helps operators avoid potential non-compliance issues.

Acting on the Changes:

Operators are strongly advised to thoroughly review their current maintenance systems, training protocols, and documentation to ensure complete alignment with this updated guidance. This includes:

• Updating driver training: Ensure drivers are fully briefed on the updated procedures for pre-use checks and reporting.
• Reviewing maintenance schedules: Check that schedules are comprehensive, and that records are accurately maintained.
• Implementing robust risk assessment procedures: Ensure that risk assessments are completed correctly and thoroughly when necessary.
• Understanding EBPMS data: Use data from EBPMS to inform preventative maintenance strategies.

Failure to comply with the updated GTMR can lead to serious consequences, including potential prosecution, fines, and even the revocation of an Operator Licence. By proactively addressing these changes, operators can ensure their continued compliance, maintain a strong safety record, and protect their business.

Download the updated GTMR from https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guide-to-maintaining-roadworthiness and https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDVSA/bulletins/3dc2dec to ensure your operations remain compliant and safe.

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