If your delivery work requires you to operate heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), it’s important that they are in tip-top shape each and every time you drive them. This means that you should complete a pre-drive check before you begin your journey – and yes, you should do this prior to every trip you take. Taking a few extra minutes to give both the inside and outside of your lorry a once-over will ensure that you are driving safely and prevent serious issues from developing without your knowledge.
Wondering what you should put on your checklist? The rest of this article will give you a cheat sheet so you can make sure everything goes without a hitch.
Outside
Before you begin your deliveries you should check the outside of your vehicle. As you walk towards your HGV, make sure that it appears to be level, that there are no leaking fluids and that the trailer is connected. You should also keep an eye on the following:
•All tyres are fully pumped up and in good condition
•The number plate is clean
•All wheel nuts are tight
•The radiator coolant level, water level, engine oil level and air cleaner service indicator are adequately full
•The fuel cap is on tightly enough that no diesel will spill out – it is extremely slippery and can be dangerous to other motorists on the road if this happens
•All trailer side lights are working
•The rear reflectors are clean
•Your load is secure and will not topple over during transit
•No rocks are trapped between the dual wheels
Inside
Once the outside of your lorry is deemed up to scratch and has been cleared for delivery work, it’s time to check the inside of your cab. Make sure that:
•The horn works
•Your view of the windscreen has no obstructions
•The windows and mirrors are all clean with no cracks
•All mirrors are properly adjusted
•The windshield wipers work properly, and your washer fluid is topped up
•There are no warning lights visible on your dashboard
•All loose items have been securely stowed
•Your brakes are working properly
•Your engine isn’t producing strange or excessive noises, rattles or fumes
•Your indicators and headlights (including your high-beams) are working
•The steering wheel is working normally
Make a List
It’s a good idea to make a list of what you will need to check before you head off to complete your delivery work. That way, each time you check to make sure your HGV is running up to scratch, you can be sure you won’t accidentally forget to have a look at something.
If your job requires you to operate an HGV to complete your delivery work, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Make yourself a list of all the things you need to check before you drive off (and feel free to add on any more specifics you’d like) and always remember to go through them before each and every trip. Those few extra minutes could be all you need to catch a potential problem and nip it in the bud.
Norman Dulwich is a Correspondent for Haulage Exchange, the leading online trade network for the road transport industry. Connecting logistics professionals across the UK and Europe through their website, Haulage Exchange provides services for matching delivery work with available drivers, and is now the fastest growing Freight Exchange in the UK.
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