VOSA (the Vehicle Operator and Services Agency) is responding to its findings from its spot checks on load security in 2009 and 2010, which revealed concerning numbers of vehicles transporting loads which were not sufficiently or safely restrained. After consulting with the haulage and transport sector, which recommended VOSA enforcement officers be trained in how to identify unsafe and high risk loads, their new campaign has been developed with the sector and the HSE, and launches on 24^th April.

Enforcement guidance is indicating that VOSA officers assess the following vehicles for load security – flatbeds, curtain-siders, low-loaders, skip lorries, car transporters and bulk tippers. If you operate a fleet with these vehicles and a load is found to be unsafe, as defined by VOSA’s new assessment matrix, then prohibition action could result. VOSA can exercise a range of enforcement powers including prohibiting the continued use of the vehicle. VOSA are indicating that minor problems with loads will be dealt with through advice rather than enforcement, where appropriate.

How would enforcement action affect your business?

Talk to us to find out more about the parameters for load security assessment and enforcement action, and how to manage the risks associated with operating delivery vehicles.