Brake testing for HGV has always been a maintenance procedure that has been mandated by the government. In the latest guidance issued by DVSA, it listed how the operators should interpret the brake test reports, determining whether the vehicle passes the test. A vehicle that has passed the test does not mean it is foolproof, the operators should check for potential faulty parts.
So, where should you get your brake testing done? We highly suggest using Capital Garage Equipment HGV brake testing as they have MOT test centres with high-quality brake testers, giving you accurate reports with peace of mind.
Test Requirements
Test Frequency
First, let’s answer the question – how often should my HGV brake be tested? According to the UK government, you will need to test your vehicles at 4 times minimum, including the ones conducted at the MOT test centres.
Vehicle Test Requirements
Before the test is conducted, it is compulsory to load your vehicle at 65% of its capacity. However, there are some exceptional cases that allow your vehicle to be tested unweighted. Vehicles that have design limitations or carry special types of loads such as human waste, live sticks or concrete mixers are exempted and allowed to be tested unweighted.
Where Should I Get My Brake Tested?
You should send your vehicles to ATFs (Authorised Test Facilities). They will ensure that the procedures are followed according to government regulations, and your vehicles will be tested within an approved environment using high-quality brake testers. This is a good choice when you do not want to invest in brake testers, as you might potentially miss out on some steps that will cost you more time and money.
Can I Get My Own Brake Testers?
Of course you can, but you’ll need to follow the government regulations tightly to ensure you do not miss out on any criteria listed. Here are some brief information on what you should do.
Clean Your Brake Testers
Before conducting any tests, make sure that your roller brake testers are cleaned and well-gritted. It is also highly advised to go for checks and maintenance for your brake testers to ensure the brake testers are in good condition.
Weights
Similar to testing in an ATF, you’ll need to load your vehicles up to 65% of their capacity unless under special circumstances.
Can I Use Decelerometers?
Unfortunately, not all vehicles are eligible for decelerometer testing, and it is only available in a few ATFs. Decelerometer is generally used for vehicles that are not able to be brake tested by a conventional roller blade tester, or in cases where roller blade testers are broken.
Brake Test Reports: What Does It Show?
The brake test report is essentially the report that tells you if your vehicle passes or fails the brake test and the reason it did, or did not.
The brake test report includes the vehicle details on the first page, such as the model type and the vehicle brand and etc. The second part shows information about the brake performance. It provides information on how each axle is performing and whether it passed the test. Finally, the last part consists of the overall result for each brake test, presenting your vehicle’s braking efficiency.
This report is beneficial for vehicle owners as it ensures that your brakes are working up to a safe standard. In the process, it identifies problems your vehicle potentially has that need repairs, which prevents HGV road hazards.
Conclusion
Overall, you will need to get your brakes tested 4 times per year, and they can be conducted in ATFs all around the UK. If you own a brake tester, make sure you follow the steps and the regulations of the government. Let us make the road much safer, for a better travel experience.