Daily fleet safety inspections are a legal requirement and your frontline defence against breakdowns, accidents and compliance breaches. If you’re not doing them thoroughly, you could be risking more than just a fine.
Here’s a practical guide for fleet operators and drivers on what to check before every shift.
Start With A Walkaround
Every set of daily fleet safety inspections should begin with a full vehicle walkaround. This is the foundation of your pre-use checks and should be carried out before the vehicle leaves the depot. Drivers should take time to check tyre pressure and tread depth, ensuring there are no bulges or damage on the sidewalls. Wheel nuts should be tight and secure, and the wheels themselves free from visible defects.
Mirrors and windows must be clean and free from cracks, giving the driver a clear and unobstructed view. Windscreen wipers should operate smoothly, and washer fluid levels need to be topped up. It’s also important to test all lights and indicators to ensure they’re working correctly and are clean enough to be visible in poor weather or low light. Finally, the driver should look beneath the vehicle for signs of fluid leaks, including fuel, oil, or coolant.
Brakes and Dashboard Warnings
Brakes are a critical safety feature, and checking them is a vital part of daily fleet safety inspections. The driver should confirm that both the foot brake and handbrake respond properly. If the vehicle is fitted with an air brake system, the air pressure should build up within the correct timeframe.
It’s essential to monitor the dashboard at startup and make sure all warning lights behave as expected. The ABS light, for instance, should switch off shortly after ignition. If any warning lights remain illuminated, the vehicle should not be driven until the issue is resolved.
In-Cab Checks and Safety Aids
The vehicle’s cab needs just as much attention. Seat belts must fasten securely and retract properly without sticking. The horn and all dashboard controls should respond immediately. If the vehicle has driver aids like blind spot cameras or in-cab monitors, these must be tested to make sure they’re functioning and switched on. Anything that obscures the driver’s field of vision, like papers on the dashboard or dangling air fresheners, should be removed.
Reversing alarms, particularly white noise systems, should be activated and checked for clarity. Left-turn audible alarms must work correctly at low speeds, especially in urban areas. For operators running vehicles under Direct Vision Standard rules, it’s essential that these systems function properly before the vehicle sets off. Learn more about our Progressive Safe System designed for compliance with TfL’s regulations.
Load Security and Bodywork
Securing the load is another key part of the inspection. All load straps should be intact and properly tensioned, with no visible signs of wear. Bodywork, especially around doors, tail lifts, and any moving panels, should be free from damage or anything that could come loose while driving. Tip trailers and other specialist body types must also be checked for mechanical faults, including signs of hydraulic leaks or misalignment. Any damage or defect here could pose a serious risk to other road users and should be reported immediately.
Don’t Forget Safety Equipment
Every vehicle in your fleet should carry essential safety kit and this should be checked daily. The fire extinguisher needs to be present, within its service date and easy to access. A warning triangle and high-visibility clothing should be in place, stored safely but readily available in case of emergency. The first aid kit must be stocked with all required items, and its container should be in good condition.
Technological systems also need checking. That includes cameras, sensors, proximity alerts and blind spot detection. You can explore our full range of recording systems, sensor systems and alarms to support compliance and improve driver awareness. These devices aren’t just useful, they’re required for many DVS, FORS and CLOCS standards. Daily inspections should confirm that all tech is powered, operational and delivering a clear signal. If a camera lens is dirty or a sensor is damaged, it’s not just a minor issue, it could leave you non-compliant and liable.
Keep a Record
Inspections mean nothing if they’re not recorded. The DVSA requires daily fleet safety inspections to be logged clearly and signed off by the driver. Records should include the time and date of the check, any faults found, and details of what action was taken. Digital systems are increasingly popular as they reduce paperwork and streamline defect reporting. However, the responsibility to complete and submit these checks still lies with the driver and the transport manager.
How TrafficAngel Can Help
Daily fleet safety inspections aren’t just a good habit, they’re a legal duty and a vital part of running a safe and efficient operation. A missed fault can turn into a serious hazard faster than you might think. By taking inspections seriously and building them into your routine, you’ll protect your drivers, your vehicles, and your reputation.
TrafficAngel also offers professional installation services on our products to ensure your safety equipment is set up correctly from day one.
Contact us now for tailored advice and fast quotes.
