15-05-06 VOSA launches its Mobile Compliance Device for more effective vehicle targeting
VOSA (Vehicle and Operator Services Agency) is launching its new tool to improve targeting of vehicles and operators at the roadside, the Mobile Compliance Device.
The Mobile Compliance Device (MCD) is a robust handheld computer designed to withstand the rigours of a roadside environment. The device uses a computer application containing information to enable intelligence and risk based targeting. It can automatically search and extract information from VOSA databases including operator and vehicle details, technical records, annual test expiry date, prohibition notices in force at the time of the stop, and also details of vehicles on international journeys from previous encounters.
VOSA Enforcement Officers using the device will be able to record vehicle encounter details at the point of contact and will also be able to support the full range of Enforcement and Prohibition Notices currently issued by VOSA.
Completed encounter details will be sent via a wireless General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) connection to a central database. This will enable encounter information to be available to all our Enforcement Officers who are active.
This new enforcement device will have the ability to download Digital Tachograph data from the driver smart card and Vehicle Unit to enable Enforcement Officers to analyse and enforce drivers’ hours regulations. In addition, it will validate the driver smart card by accessing a central repository of driver card information held by DVLA using its GPRS facility.
The application will, when approved by Parliament and implemented, also be able to allow VOSA Examiners to administer the Graduated Deposit, Fixed Penalty regime to enable Fixed Penalty Notices to be issued at the roadside.
National roll out of the MCDs, one for each VOSA Enforcement Officer, will soon be completed.
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NOTES TO EDITOR:
VOSA (Vehicle and Operator Services Agency) 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 accidents, defects and recalls
For media enquiries about VOSA please contact: Henry Norman on 0117 954 3208/ henry.norman@vosa.gov.uk or Zita Galambosi on 0117 954 2561/ zita.galambosi@vosa.gov.uk
Page last updated: 03/10/2006