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The Driver Vehicle & Standards Agency (DVSA) has recently revealed the results of checks that took place between 2019 and 2021. The checks were carried out on non-testable trailers up to 3.5 tonnes maximum weight. 50% were non- compliant, with 41% being issued an immediate prohibition notice.
The most common issues were:
• Lamps/bulbs – 36%
• Running gear, including tires – 21%
• Brakes – 20%
• Chassis, including coupling – 10%
• Bodywork, including registration plates – 6%
• Suspension – 4%
80% of the trailers checked were in commercial use.
An interesting statistic is the trailers in commercial use had a slightly lower defect rate than those in private use. This is likely to be due to companies instigating trailer checks and both these points and more are covered in the Tilhill Toolbox Talk TT/46.
The DVSA report can be found here:
A trailer needs to be inspected and maintained, users also still need training and be competent in its use.