Roadworthiness is a key part of managing a commercial fleet. Operators need a clear process for monitoring vehicle condition, required inspections and supporting records.
A roadworthy certificate or inspection record does not remove the need for routine maintenance and daily defect reporting. Vehicles can develop problems between formal inspections.
What fleet managers should review
- Confirm the applicable inspection and certification requirements for each vehicle.
- Track relevant dates and keep supporting records accessible.
- Maintain a documented process for reporting and repairing defects.
- Check that tyres, brakes, lights and other safety-critical systems receive appropriate attention.
- Review repeat defects and overdue repairs.
- Ensure vehicles are removed from service when they are unsafe to operate.
What drivers should do: Complete the required checks and report defects promptly rather than assuming that a recently inspected vehicle cannot develop a fault.
The takeaway: Compliance records, preventive maintenance and daily inspections work together. None should replace the others.
