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Pi LETTER OF THE WEEK
Page 18
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Becoming an ATF for VOSA would not be a sound business decision
I WILL NOT be taking the opportunity to run an ATF (Authorised Testing Facility) as part of the VOSA testing transformation scheme for the following reasons: • Having seen the draft contract, it appears to be wholly in favour of VOSA.
• There is no scope for compensation resulting from the failure of VOSA to provide testers.
• Any failure of equipment becomes the sole responsibility of the ATE • Advance payment to VOSA is required, and there is very limited flexibity in the fact that no refund will be made in seven days.This really does not take into account the needs of the haulage industry.
• The only time a refund will be given is if VOSA fails to meet its commitments.
• If a subsituted vehicle costs more, then the ATF will pay. However, if it costs less, VOSA will not refund any money.
• VOSA retains the right to cancel testers on the day with no penalty other than refunding the test fees.
Within the contract, there is no exclusivity clause for a particular area. This means that the projected figures and number of vehicles that could be expected to be tested might change immediately and dramatically if another ATF is established in the vicinity. This will have an effect on the capital outlay to meet the ATF infrastructure needs.
I'm not willing to invest £100,000 for what is an uncertain outcome, especially in light of the present economic situation.
It appears to me that VOSA is trying to pass on all the risk to the private sector without any commensurate safeguards. It just does not make sound business sense.
Andy Powell Managing director
Andy Powell Commercials