[HERE IS AN urgent need for a study group on
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vehicle recovery to )e set up, according to John Hancock of Crane Fruehauf, Speaking at a conference in -larrogate on vehicle recovery )rganised by the Institute of Vlechanical Engineers, Mr lancock said that although the 3ritish recovery industry )rovides a'n essential service, it las been sadly neglected.
Mr Hancock recommended :hat expert advice should be sought from the police, 4ssociation of Insurance lingineers, Department of fransport and the Association of Vehicle Recovery Operators.
He suggested that the broad objective of such a study group thould be to review whether all recovery vehicles should be checked and tested to a recognised standard of roadworthiness. At the moment, recovery vehicles do not have to be DTp tested or plated although they do have to comply with the Construction and Use Regulations and also the Health and Safety at Work Act.
Mr Hancock proposed that the following items ought to be considered: (a) All recovery vehicles to be MoT tested every 12 months. (b) The test should include the approval of test certificates showing the maximum safe working load of all recovery equipment.
(c) The kerb weights and maximum design gtw of the recovery chassis should be checked and clearly displayed to determine the maximum weight of the vehicle that can be towed.
(d) Health and Safety Act and winch cable standards must be adhered to.