Our next #OSHtober Driving for Work blog covers a topic that is essential for ensuring you drive safely, your pre-drive checks…
Whether it’s for work or not, the ultimate responsibility for ensuring that the vehicle you are driving is safe and legal falls to you. So here are 9 things you should regularly check before setting off on a journey…
- Tyres are undamaged (no cuts or bulges), are at the correct pressure and have enough tread depth. The legal minimum is 1.6mm, but above 3mm gives much shorter braking distances in the wet
- There are no signs of vehicle damage
- Oil, coolant and windscreen wash levels are correct (check when the engine is cold)
- You know the correct type of fuel for the vehicle
- Brakes are working
- Lights and indicators are working
- Windscreen and windows are not damaged
- Washers and wipers are working
- Mirrors are correctly positioned
Now, we’re not all ace mechanics, in fact you might not have a clue about much of the above. Luckily, there are a few ways you can get around this potential problem: 
- Ask your manager if your organisation provide pre-drive checklists and instructions.
- You should have a copy of your vehicle’s hand book in the glove box.
- Check out RoSPA’s vehicle checks video
- AND, don’t be afraid to ask for help!
Finally, If you’re in any doubt as to whether your vehicle is in a safe or legal condition, do no drive it until all repairs have been completed.
Throughout #OSHtober we will be providing you with tips and advice on how to ensure you drive safely for work. You can also keep up to date with all the latest safety news by signing up to SafetyMatters, our free monthly e-newsletter.
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