Written rules could save you a load of trouble
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When an operator is granted a licence he gives an undertaking that he will ensure his vehicles are not overloaded.
The Traffic Commissioner expects the operator to stick to that undertaking and any breaches can result in a public inquiry. The steps taken to prevent overloading should be just as strong as those taken to prevent drivers hours and tachograph infringements. Verbal instructions are insufficient—they will not be believed or accepted. Positive instructions need to be in writing, issued to drivers—and acknowledged. A typical company statement might read as follows: 1. This company will not tolerate it's vehicles being overloaded. 2. Overloading is an offence whether committed knowingly or not.
3. Overloading affects the company operator's repute and Operator's Licence. 4. Overloading results in fines. 5. Overloading results in revoked Operator's Licences. 6. Overloading can refer to the vehicle's gross or axle weight. 7. Drivers must know the unladen weight of the vehicle.
8. Drivers must know the carrying capacity of the vehicle.
9. Drivers must check the delivery note with the load that they have collected and must know the weight of the load. 10. If in doubt drivers must weigh their vehicles at the nearest weighbridge or seek instructions from the Traffic Office.
11. Drivers who offend will be subject to the company's disciplinary procedure. The operator must check with his customers to ensure that he provides the right vehicles and knows the precise weight of the load/consignment he is collecting. Where possible the operator must seek a declaration of the weight to ensure he has been advised of the gross as well as the net weight. He should emphasise that the distribution of the load is important to prevent axle overloads.
l] by Gary Hodgson