Don’t forget your HGV markings
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CONSPICUITY MARKINGS will become part of annual HGV testing from January 2012, following implementation of the latest EU legislation.
All vehicles weighing more than 7.5-tonnes and registered after 10 July 2011, as well as all trailers exceeding 3.5-tonnes manufactured after 10 July 2011, are required to be fitted with the markings (some exceptions apply) from that date. While the rules state that full contour marking on the vehicle’s rear is required as well as partial contour marking on the side, VOSA states: “Consideration will be given where the shape, structure, design or operational requirements make it impossible to comply. In these cases line marking will be acceptable.” VOSA says most vehicles will be fully compliant, but some body types “will prove challenging”. Other revisions include extra checks on brakes, steering suspension and lighting, as well as new tests covering on-board electrical safety systems, like electronic stability control and electronic power steering. VOSA chief executive Alastair Peoples says: “We have worked with the industry to prepare them for these changes to make sure that the measures are introduced in the least burdensome way possible.”