More Than Just a Tick Box
Why Your Daily Walkaround Is a Lifesaver
Zed Aziz CMILT
Let's be honest, at the start of a long day, the walkaround check can feel like just another task on a never-ending list. The pressure is on, the clock is ticking, and you just want to get on the road.
But that check is far more than just a legal formality or a box-ticking exercise. It's one of the most critical parts of your professional day. And here's the most important thing to remember: no one knows your truck or bus like you do.
You're the Expert: Trust Your Gut 🧠
You’re in that cab day in, day out. You know the specific sounds the engine makes, the feel of the brakes, and how the steering should respond. You're the first person to notice when something is even slightly 'off'—a new rattle, a slight pull to one side, or a slow air leak that a mechanic might not spot in a workshop.
This unique connection to your vehicle makes you the most important safety inspector it will ever have. The daily walkaround isn't just about looking; it's about listening, feeling, and using your professional judgment. You are the first and most important line of defence in keeping our roads safe.
Why It's More Than Just Paperwork
A properly conducted walkaround check isn't about creating hassle; it's about preventing it. Every time you complete a thorough check, you are:
Preventing accidents and protecting yourself, your colleagues, and the public.
Avoiding costly prohibitions from the DVSA or police at the roadside.
Minimising vehicle downtime and keeping the wheels turning.
Proving your professionalism and showing you take your responsibilities seriously.
Remember, this check is working time, and you must be given the time to do it properly. Rushing it helps no one.
The Nitty-Gritty: Your Systematic Checklist ✅
Consistency is key. Start in the same place and follow the same routine every single time to ensure nothing gets missed.
Lights & Indicators: Are they all working, clean, and the right colour? No cracked lenses?
Tyres & Wheels: Check the pressures, tread depth, and look for damage. Are the wheel nut indicators all pointing the right way?
Brakes & Air: Listen for air leaks. Check couplings and lines. Do the foot and parking brakes feel right?
Steering: Any excessive play or unusual looseness?
Wipers & Washers: Do they clear the screen effectively? Is the washer bottle topped up?
Mirrors & Glass: Clean, properly adjusted, and no dangerous cracks? Is your view clear?
Bodywork & Load Security: Any loose panels or damage? Most importantly, is your load secure? Is the tail-lift working correctly?
Fluid Levels: Check your oil, coolant, and washer fluid.
For PSV drivers, this extends to ensuring emergency exits are clear, seats and seatbelts are secure, and all accessibility equipment is in good working order.
Spotted an Issue? Shout About It! ⚠️
Finding a defect is only half the job. For decades, this has meant grabbing a greasy, often damp, paper defect book and scribbling down the issue. But is the report legible? Does it get to the Transport Manager straight away, or does it sit in the cab for a week?
This is where technology makes a real difference. A clear, instant, and auditable report protects both the driver and the operator. It’s precisely why, as transport consultants, we developed our own app: DDIR.co.uk. It ensures your vital report is clear, lands on the right desk instantly, and starts a watertight rectification process right away.
Making Compliance Simple: The Right Tools for the Job 📱
While the driver’s eyes and ears are the most important tools, modern technology can make the entire process more robust and efficient.
Our app, DDIR.co.uk, was designed by transport people, for transport people. It’s more than just a digital checklist; it’s a complete vehicle management tool that helps everyone stay compliant.
For Drivers: An intuitive, step-by-step process makes checks faster and more thorough. You can even take photos of defects, so there’s no confusion.
For Transport Managers: Get instant email alerts for any reported defects, so you can take action immediately. No more waiting for paperwork.
For the Business: DDIR is a full fleet management system. It tracks everything from PMIs and MOTs with automated reminders, to recording fuel and AdBlue usage, helping you spot trends and improve vehicle efficiency.
It ensures you are not just legally compliant, but that you are operating in the spirit of the law to achieve genuine safety and efficiency.
The Hard Truth: What Happens When Checks are Skipped
Ignoring a walkaround check can have serious consequences that affect everyone.
For Drivers: You could face fines, points, or even have your vocational licence suspended or revoked.
For Operators & TMs: They risk prohibitions, a terrible OCRS score, fines, and even losing their operator's licence.
For Everyone: The worst-case scenario is a major accident caused by a preventable defect.
Cases like M&S Scaffolding (Cumbria) Ltd show that the Traffic Commissioners will not hesitate to take serious action when daily checks and maintenance are neglected.
Your Call to Action
Drivers: Treat every check with the seriousness it deserves. Trust your instincts—if something doesn't feel right, report it clearly. Your diligence protects your licence and saves lives.
Operators and Transport Managers: Do your systems fully support your drivers? Are you auditing checks and providing ongoing training? Empower your drivers to make the right call.
Modernise Your Process: If you’re still wrestling with paper defect books and spreadsheets, it’s time for a change. See how a dedicated digital system can transform your compliance.
Find out more about how DDIR.co.uk can streamline your walkaround checks and fleet management by visiting our information page: https://www.theftc.co.uk/ddir-fleet-management-amp-walkaround-web-app/