08-11-10 Fail rates for HGV tests hit all time low
More heavy good vehicles than ever before are passing their annual test first-time, thanks to new innovations and close collaboration between VOSA and the industry.
This week VOSA published it’s 2009/10 Effectiveness Report which shows that initial test fail rates have fallen below the 30 per cent mark for the first time since the agency began logging test results in 1992.
The figure for 2009/10 stands at 27.4 per cent, significantly lower than the 32.4 per cent reported in 2008/9 and 36.5 per cent in 2007/08. VOSA have attributed this to an innovative approach to testing and ever closer links with the industry to help them achieve compliance.
By making performance reports available online VOSA has enabled operators to manage their own compliance more proactively, with 47 per cent of operators now signed up.
VOSA has also worked closely with vehicle manufacturers on initiatives to drive up first time pass rates at their dealerships. By being given access to performance data provided by VOSA, manufacturers are able to set targets and incentivise dealers to ensure their vehicles pass first time.
In addition, the agency has worked with the industry to simplify testing standards for headlamp aim in 2008 which has proved to be a success. Since then, a modern electronic method of assessing headlamp aim has been introduced which has lead to an improved pass rate.
VOSA Chief Executive Alastair Peoples said:
“I am really encouraged by these latest figures.”
"A lower first time pass rate shows that roadworthiness standards are improving. This means safer roads for everybody.
"VOSA is working ever closer with the industry to push up compliance and our innovative on-line services are proving to be a really effective tool.”
View the report here:
http://www.dft.gov.uk/vosa/publications/corporatereports/2009-2010reportsuite/2009-2010reportsuite.htm
ENDS
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: Luke Bigwood on 0117 954 3208. You can also e-mail press@vosa.gov.uk
Page last updated: 08/11/2010