The walkaround check – latest guidance

When you’re behind the wheel of an HGV, you’re carrying more than just a load—you’re carrying responsibility. Every mile you cover relies on one key thing: your vehicle being safe, roadworthy, and fit for purpose. That’s why the daily walkaround check isn’t just a box to tick—it’s a legal duty, a safety safeguard, and a way to protect yourself, your job, and everyone else on the road.

The Traffic Commissioners, in their latest update (published 8th September 2025), send a clear message – the daily walkaround check must be carried out properly.

Below, we’ve highlighted the key points from the updated guidance.

Key Areas to Check

A good walkaround check should always be methodical and consistent. Start at the same point every time, follow the same order, and don’t cut corners. The DVSA checklist covers the following areas:

• Lights & Indicators – clean, working, correct colour, no cracked lenses.
• Tyres & Wheels – tread depth, pressure, damage, and wheel nut security.
• Brakes – listen for air leaks, check couplings, make sure foot and parking brakes work.
• Steering – no excessive play, no leaks, no damage.
• Wipers, Washers & Screen – clear vision, topped-up fluid, no cracks or chips.
• Mirrors & Glass – properly adjusted, clean, no obstruction.
• Bodywork & Load – panels secure, load evenly distributed, safely sheeted or strapped.
• Fluids – oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid where accessible.
• Paperwork – insurance and tachograph card (if required).

As highlighted in the Traffic Commissioner’s blog: “This check counts as working time, and drivers must be given adequate time to complete it properly.”

Why the Checks Matter

It’s not just about ticking a box—it’s about safety, compliance, and professionalism. Doing the walkaround check properly helps to:

• Prevent accidents that could injure you or others.
• Avoid roadside prohibitions from DVSA or the police.
• Reduce downtime by catching problems early.
• Prove compliance with the undertakings given to the Traffic Commissioner.

Real cases show what happens when checks are ignored. In one example, an operator’s licence was curtailed after poor maintenance and daily checks led to serious failings. The message is clear: these checks are not optional.

Drivers – Reporting Defects

Even if you spot a fault during the walkaround check that’s only half the job. Make sure you report defects clearly and promptly in writing—whether using paper forms or digital systems. Reports should be accurate, legible, and kept as part of an audit trail.

Drivers must never take a vehicle with a safety-critical defect onto the road. It’s both unsafe and unlawful. Remember, your report triggers the repair process, and operators are responsible for making sure defects are fixed quickly and properly.

If you’re ever asked to take a vehicle that you believe isn’t safe, explain the defect and why it needs attention first. It’s about protecting yourself, your licence, and everyone on the road. No operator should expect a driver to use a vehicle that isn’t roadworthy.

Operators & Transport Managers – Accountability

While drivers carry out the checks, the Traffic Commissioner makes it clear that operators and Transport Managers are ultimately accountable. Their responsibilities include:

• Training – ensuring drivers know how to carry out checks and report defects.
• Systems – having robust processes for reporting, recording, and scheduling repairs.
• Monitoring – spot checks, auditing, and making sure issues aren’t missed.
• Providing tools – from torches and paper forms to easy-to-use digital apps.

Without these systems in place, operators and managers risk licence curtailment, suspension, or even revocation.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

If you fail to complete checks properly—or ignore reported defects—it can lead to:

• Roadside prohibitions – vehicles taken off the road immediately.
• Fines & penalties – for both drivers and operators.
• Damage to Operator Compliance Risk Score (OCRS) – bringing more DVSA scrutiny.
• Regulatory action – including licence loss for operators or professional disqualification for Transport Managers.
• Driver licence action – suspension or revocation of vocational licences.
• And in the worst cases—accidents, injuries, or fatalities caused by defects.

So the daily walkaround check is a small task with big consequences. It’s about professionalism, pride, and above all, safety. As the Traffic Commissioner highlights, vigilance and consistency are essential: “The daily walkaround check is a legal obligation and a critical safety measure. It protects lives, ensures compliance, and supports the integrity of commercial transport operations.”

Drivers – please make it part of your routine—your job depends on it.

We encourage you to take a few minutes to revisit the DVSA guidance for HGVs and PSVs. It’s a valuable reminder of best practice and the standard that keeps the industry safe and professional.

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