Managing drivers’ hours and tachograph data is one of the most critical responsibilities for HGV operators. Failure to comply with the rules not only risks fines and prohibitions but can also result in reputational damage and operator licence restrictions.

Safety is the cornerstone of every successful HGV operation. Yet, for many operators, safety can feel like a checklist item — something managed through paperwork and policies. In reality, safety must be much more than compliance. It must be ingrained into every aspect of your business, from leadership and logistics to driver behaviour and depot culture.

Every HGV operator knows that DVSA inspections are a crucial part of maintaining road safety and compliance standards — but that doesn’t make them any less stressful. Whether at the roadside or during a site visit, a DVSA inspection can uncover critical failings that not only lead to hefty penalties but can also damage your operator reputation and licence.

The latest Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness brings big changes—brake testing is now required at every inspection, and older vehicles and trailers (12+ years) must be on a six-week inspection schedule.

The DVSA released a comprehensive update to the HGV Inspection Manual, with changes coming into effect from 1st April 2025. These revisions introduce greater clarity and more robust testing standards, with key updates across multiple sections of the manual.

Initial driver qualification is only the beginning. Regular assessments and monitoring throughout a driver’s career are key to maintaining high standards and catching bad habits before they become dangerous.

Driver fatigue is a silent threat in road transport. It contributes to thousands of accidents each year and poses a risk not just to your drivers, but to every road user. Managing fatigue isn’t just about compliance with hours rules—it’s about protecting lives.

A robust defect reporting system is fundamental to both compliance and road safety. All drivers must be trained to carry out daily walkaround checks and know how to report any faults they find. But for the system to work, management must take those reports seriously and act on them quickly.

Bridge strikes remain one of the most preventable yet costly incidents in UK transport. Each strike causes not only structural damage and traffic disruption but also risks to life and reputational harm to operators. Preventing bridge strikes begins with effective route planning. Use reliable route planning tools that take vehicle height into account, and ensure drivers are trained to verify their route and be aware of low bridges along the way. Clearly displayed height signage in cabs can serve as a last-minute reminder.

A compliance audit might sound like an expense, but it should be seen as an investment in your business’s future. Having an independent expert assess your systems, documentation, and operational procedures can identify weaknesses before they become critical and help improve overall efficiency.