18-02-05 Introduction of twistlocks and stabiliser arms at Annual Test
From 1 April 2005 VOSA will be introducing two new items to the annual test for goods vehicles. The test will now include a check of shipping container location and securing devises, commonly known as twistlocks. Stabiliser arms will also be checked on vehicles fitted with loading arms, such as brick grabbers, aggregate grabs and so on.
The introduction of these additional test items is in response to fatal accidents where shipping containers have detached from their carrying vehicle and where stabiliser arms have deployed while the vehicle is in motion, hitting pedestrians.
The Trade Associations who represent operators of Goods Vehicles have been consulted on the test procedure and standards to be applied.
An information leaflet will shortly be available at VOSA Test Stations, Designated Premises and the VOSA website (www.vosa.gov.uk). A copy of the Inspection Manual pages will also be posted on the website ahead of hard copy distribution.
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Notes to Editors
The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA )is responsible for:
- Processing applications for licences to operate lorries and buses and registering bus services
- Operating and administering testing schemes for all vehicles, including the supervision of the MOT testing scheme
- Enforcing the law on vehicles to ensure that they comply with legal standards and regulations
- Enforcing drivers' hours and licensing requirements
- Supporting Traffic Commissioners to help them make informed decisions on operator licensing, vocational drivers and bus registration requirements
- Providing training and advice for commercial operators
- Investigating vehicle accident, defects and recalls.
Page last updated: 25/09/2006