What daily checks do HGV Drivers need to make?

By lge@abax.co.uk | February 25 2020 (updated 8/12/21)

Driving a HGV is a big responsibility, not only are you transporting goods but you’re also in control of a large and potentially dangerous vehicle if not driven properly. As well as driving the vehicle safely, there are a number of other checks that need to be made on the vehicle to ensure it is safe before the driver climbs aboard. These checks are known as the HGV Drivers walk around checks procedure.

What checks form part of the HGV walk around checks procedure?

There are a number of walk around checks that are required, which are made up of specific observations on different parts of the vehicle. This process has been designed to catch any problems or potential problems before you begin driving the vehicle.

Outside vehicle checks

1. Lights

Check that all lights and indicators are working correctly, clean and are the right colour. This includes the brake lights

2. Leaks

Ensure that there are no oil or fuel leaks coming from the vehicle

3. Battery
Make sure that the battery is secure, not leaking and in a good working condition

4. AdBlue
Make sure that if you’re driving a diesel vehicle, that it has enough AdBlue fluid and if needed is topped up

5. Excessive engine exhaust smoke
Ensure that the exhaust isn’t emitting a large amount of smoke

6. Body and wings
Make sure that

all fastening devices work
all doors are secure when they are closed
all body panels are secure and unlikely to fall off
if fitted, that landing lets are secure as well as side/rear under-run guards

7. Spray suppression
Ensure that these measures are properly attached and functioning

8. Tyres
All tyres need to be secure, have a tread depth of at least 1mm and are inflated correctly. As well as this you will also need to check if any of the sidewalls have deep cuts on them

9. Brakes
Make sure that the brakes and brake lines are working correctly

10. Electrical connections
Each connection should be checked with all couplings connected securely and all visible wiring insulated

11. Security of load
Ensure that the load does not move, or is not likely to move with the correct load securing system being used

12. Number plate
With all vehicles (not such HGVs) make sure that the number plate is visible, clean and unbroken

13. Markers and warning plates
All markers and warning plates need to be attached and visible

Inside vehicle checks

14. Mirrors and glass
Much like the same as a normal vehicle check, you need to make sure that the windscreen isn’t chipped or cracked and the mirrors are secure and not damaged

15. Wipers and washers
The windscreen wipers need checking to make sure that they are not damaged or worn

16. View
No objects should get in the way of the front view of the driver

17. Warning lights
Make sure that all warning lights are working correctly including instruments on the dashboard

18. Steering
Before setting off make sure that the wheel moves correctly and doesn’t jam

19. Horn
Check this works and can be accessed easily

20. Height marker
Make sure that in the cab, the correct height marker is displayed

By getting your HGV drivers to follow the above checks, it should make them and other road users safer as you know the vehicle is in a good condition. One other way that ABAX can help to improve your drivers safety on the road is through our Driving Behaviour feature which is available through our Vehicle Tracking Solution. Not only this but it can lead to increased productivity within your fleet.