All fitters need a Testers Manual
Page 5
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FITTERS must be made fully aware of their responsibilities, otherwise badly carried out inspections and repairs could cause prohibition notices indicating neglect.
This warning was sounded by South Wales Licensing Authority John Mervyn Pugh, when he cut the duration of the licence held by Cardiff-based A & A Demolitions, at a public inquiry. The firm had been called before the LA following the issue of prohibitions which indicated its vehicles had been neglected.
Edward Young, a partner, said that their troubles started early in 1989 when it was found that one of the fitters was not "up to the mark".
For the firm, Hugh Price said that he had explained the main tenance system recommended in the South Wales traffic area to Young. A wall chart had been put in and drivers had been given defect books. In addition, Young had written to all the firm's drivers pointing out their responsibilities.
Saying that the firm should now send similar letters to its fitters, and provide them with copies of the Tester's Manual, Mervyn Pugh commented that it was surprising the number of operators who were now finding problems with fitters.
He said that it amazed him how a vehicle could be examined without a Tester's Manual. The Manual stated only the minimum standards required. The traffic area was looking for higher standards.
The LA prematurely terminated the licence so that it now expires at the end of October, instead of in 1993.