It is critical that operators regularly check the condition of tyres for signs of damage or premature and uneven wear.

An increasing number of van and other light commercial vehicle operators in the UK are at risk of having a serious accident as they are failing to monitor the condition and pressures of their tyres.

The latest VOSA effectiveness report shows that ‘condition of tyres’ remains the most frequent prohibition defect at spot checks on light goods vehicles across the country. Worryingly, the incidence rate has increased from 20% in 2007/08 and 2008/09 to just under 26% in 2009/10.

“Van tyres lead a particularly hard life so it is critical that operators regularly check the condition for signs of damage or premature and uneven wear,” explained Stuart Jackson, Chairman of TyreSafe. “Debris or regular scuffing on kerbs during delivery drops can cause significant damage to tyres. If left unchecked, they may fail at a critical moment, risking serious injury for the driver and other road users.”

Responsibility for the condition of the tyres on the vehicle lies both with the van driver and the business itself. Drivers should ensure their tyres are in a roadworthy condition before setting off each day. Indeed, drivers found to be driving on illegal tyres risk incurring a personal fine of £2,500 and three penalty points for each illegal tyre. Business owners also have a responsibility and a duty of care to provide their employees with a safe working environment, which includes the provision of safe and roadworthy vehicles. Under the Health and Safety Offences Act (2009), UK courts have greater authority to prosecute businesses for committing offences such as running on illegal tyres or faulty brakes. The maximum penalty has increased from £5,000 to £20,000.

In addition to these hefty fines, businesses face a number of additional costs by failing to look after their tyres properly. Under-inflated tyres will not only wear more quickly, they also have an adverse effect on fuel consumption.

“This rising trend of tyre-related prohibition defects is extremely worrying,” continued Jackson. “I would urge all businesses, large or small, that operate vans and other light commercial vehicles to ensure they have robust procedures in place to regularly check the condition of their fleet’s tyres.”

To help businesses and van users understand their responsibilities towards tyre care and the key safety issues they need to consider, TyreSafe has launched a new dedicated van tyre safety section on its website. The site includes a selection of useful tips and guides as well as a free downloadable safety leaflet. To view the pages or download the leaflet, visit www.tyresafe.org.