The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has issued a new guide to help logistics bosses bring their vehicles into line with new stricter compliance checks.
According to the group, its latest compliance guide will ensure all operators are fully prepared for the new vehicle sideguards checks set to be introduced from May this year.
The guide gives information on existing legislation surrounding vehicle sideguards, listing all the forthcoming changes to the annual test requirements and how to ensure compliance.
Following intervention by the FTA in 2007, the introduction of the stricter sideguards checks was delayed due to suspected difficulties in complying for some operators, but the group is happy that the new rules are now viable.
"We now have a sensible, workable set of requirements which will enable every operator to comply, regardless of their vehicle's configuration, whilst keeping safety considerations paramount," said Andy Mair, FTA's head of engineering policy.
The latest rule changes come after the government last month announced details of new safety requirements for lorry drivers, which will come into force from 2013.
Under the new rules, truck drivers of all ages will have to demonstrate their ability and fitness to drive every five years before they can renew their licence.
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