Keeping safe on the roads should always be a number one priority. However, we understand that it can be difficult to stay up-to-date with all the newest government regulation. We have created our health and safety series to make it easier for you to refresh your memory and stay as safe as possible whilst following the newest government guidelines.
Recently the UK government announced that there is going to be a ban on the use of old tyres on lorries as part of a road-safety, accident prevention measure. Commencing in Autumn, you will be unable to have a tyre on the front wheels of a lorry that is aged ten years or older. An extensive investigation by the Department for Transport found that older tyres experience corrosion and it is therefore unsafe for them to be on the roads.
Whilst it used to be the case that tyres aged ten years or older would prompt further investigation into the vehicle operator, providing that there was a valid explanation for the use of the old tyres it was not a criminal offence.
Now it will be mandatory for a visible date of manufacture to be displayed on each tyre to ensure that they are complying with regulation, making older tyres easier to spot. This is also the case for re-treaded tyres, which must display the date of re-treading in order for their age to be easily seen.
“Taking this step will give drivers across the country confidence their lorries, buses and coaches are truly fit for use – a safety boost for road users everywhere.”
– Roads Minister Baroness Vere.
With roads getting busier every year your safety has never been more important. Keep updated with our health and safety series for more information.
- Read our previous article: A guide to securing loads
- For more information on the tyre ban visit the government website.