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  • Driver Roadworthiness: The FleetCheck Practical Guide

    Ensuring your drivers are roadworthy is a core responsibility for all fleet managers. It directly impacts safety, compliance, and reliability. When driver fitness is managed effectively, risks decrease, incidents decline, and your fleet runs more efficiently.

    This series provides practical, evidence-based guidance on building a robust driver roadworthiness programme. Each article addresses a critical component of driver management, offering clear actions that fleet operators can implement immediately.

    Each article is designed for fleet managers, transport operators and safety leads who need actionable insight, not theory. The focus is on practical implementation, regulatory alignment, and real-world impact. Together, they form a comprehensive roadmap to a safer, efficient and more compliant fleet.

    Here’s what you’ll gain from each piece:

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    Beyond Vehicle Checks – Why Driver Roadworthiness Matters

    Driver fitness is a legal and operational requirement. This article outlines why physical, mental and emotional wellbeing must be treated with the same rigour as vehicle inspections. You’ll learn how integrating driver assessments into daily work life strengthens safety outcomes and improves organizational reputation.
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    Proactive vs Reactive – A Modern Approach to Driver Health Monitoring

    Waiting for a health issue to surface can lead to avoidable incidents and costly downtime. This article details of systematic monitoring, like licence checks, medical declarations, and early warning signs, enable early intervention. The result: few disruptions and greater control over fleet risk.
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    From Compliance to Care – How to Manage Drive Fatigue

    Fatigue is a leading contributor to at-risk driving. This article sets out the requirements and daily reality of managing driver hours. You’ll learn how to identify fatigue early, support drivers effectively and embed rest protocols that work in real-world conditions.
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    From Policy to Practice – The Road to Compliance

    A policy only has value if it’s followed. This article walks through the steps to implement a living roadworthiness programme. From risk assessment and manager training to technology use. It shows how to move from documentation to consistent action.
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    Data-Driven Decisions – Using Tachographs to Improve Driver Safety

    Tachograph data is a powerful tool for insight and compliance. This article demonstrates how to analyse driver behavior trends to identify coaching opportunities and reduce risk before it occurs.
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    Fit to Drive – How Wellness Impacts Safety and Compliance

    Sustainable performance starts with driver wellbeing. This article explores how factors like stress, hydration, and musculoskeletal health affect driving ability. You’ll discover practical, low-cost initiatives that support long-term fitness to drive and reinforce a culture of care.
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  • FleetCheck Driver Roadworthiness Series- Article 6

    Fit to Drive: How Wellness Impacts Safety and Compliance

    Let’s talk about something that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves. The health and wellbeing of your drivers. We spend a lot of time talking about vehicle maintenance, compliance checks, efficiency. But the truth is, no matter how advanced your fleet technology is, if your drivers aren’t feeling their best, physically or mentally your operation isn’t running at full strength.

    Here’s the good news: investing in driver wellness isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s a smart business move. According to a Deloitte study, for every £1 spent on employee’s wellbeing, organisations see an average return of £51 through reduced absenteeism, lower staff turnover, and improved productivity. That’s not just a win for your, it’s a win for your bottom line.
    So how do we bring wellness into the world of long shifts, tight schedules and miles on the road? Let’s break it down.

    Why Driver Wellness Matters

    Let’s take a moment to consider the reality of life as a professional driver. They spend long hours behind the wheel, often in challenging conditions; battling traffic, meeting tight delivery windows and carrying the mental weight of responsibility for the good, services, schedules and safety.

    Yet, despite being the face of your business. The person your customers actually see and interact with, their wellbeing is too often overlooked. They are your frontline ambassadors, shaping customer perceptions with every interaction. How they feel, how they’re treated and how supported they are, reflects directly on your brand. Without the right support, the demands of the job can take a real toll on their focus, health and morale. When drivers aren’t at their best your operations feel it too. Investing in their welfare is the right thing to do and a smart move for your business.If you’ve followed the previous articles in FleetCheck’s Driver Roadworthiness series, it’s quite clear that being “roadworthy” isn’t just about having a valid licence or an MOT pass on your vehicle. It’s about being physically, mentally and emotionally fit to drive.

    When drivers feel supported in their health, they’re more engaged. More alert, and less likely to experience fatigue related incidents.

    So where should you start?

    Key Areas of Wellness: Beyond the Basics

    Physical Health: More Than Just a Medical

    We all know drivers need regular eyesight checks and DVLA medical declarations, but wellness goes further.

    You could consider:
    Ergonomics: Are seats adjusted correctly? Is cab layout reducing strain?
    Hydration & Nutrition: Long hours on the road can mean missed meals and poor food choices. Dehydration alone can impair concentration as much as mild fatigue.
    Movement: Sitting for extended periods increases the risk of musculoskeletal issues. Even small stretches between stops can make a difference.

    A little support goes a long way. Simple change like encouraging drivers to pack water and healthy snacks can have a real impact on energy levels and alertness.

    Mental Health: The Silent Factor

    Mental health is just as critical as physical health, yet it’s often overlooked in fleet operations. Stress, isolation and pressure to meet deadlines can all contribute to anxiety or burnout. When a driver is struggling mentally, it affects their focus, reaction time and decision-making.

    Creating psychological safety is key. That means building a culture where drivers feel comfortable saying:
    “I’m not feeling up to driving today”
    “I need a break”
    “I’m dealing with something personal”

    These aren’t signs of weakness. They’re signs of responsibility. As we’ve highlighted previously, open communication around mental health is a vital part of risk management.

    Practical Tips You Can Start Today

    You don’t need a full-scale wellness program to make a difference. Here are a few simple tips to get you started:
    Train managers to have supportive conversations: encourage them to check in regularly and create an environment where drivers feel heard, not judged. When managers take the time to listen, it builds trust and opens the door for honest communication.

    • Ask the simple question: “Are you OK?”: It might seem small, but this one question, asked with genuine care, can make all the difference. Follow up with empathy and be ready to act if a driver seems overwhelmed or fatigued.
    • Consider the whole persons: recognise that drivers’ lives outside of work affect their performance on the road. If a driver has recently become a parent, is dealing with a family illness or facing personal challenges, think about how your business can support them. Adjusting routes, offering more flexible hours, or giving extra rest time can help them stay safe and valued.
    • Review your Driving for Work Policy: Make sure it clearly outlines requirements for breaks, hydration and rest periods. Communicate it regularly and ensure its consistently followed across your fleet.
    • Encourage healthy eating: promote better snack choices like nuts, fruit or protein bars instead of sugary options that can lead to energy crashes.
    • Promote regular movement: share simple in-cab stretches or encourage drivers to walk during delivery stops. Even short bursts of movement can reduce stiffness and improve alertness.
    • Provide access to mental health resources: whether it’s an Employee Assistance Programme, a confidential helpline or subscription to mindfulness apps, make sure drivers know support is available and how to access it.
    • Small habits consistently applied, lead to big changes.

    How FleetCheck Supports Driver Wellness

    At FleetCheck, we believe that technology should do more than track compliance, it should support people. That’s why our platform includes features designed to help drivers stay healthy and alert. From automated reminders for digital health declarations to customisable Fit to Drive declarations, aligned to company polices. We’re not just helping you meet regulations; we’re helping you build a culture where driver wellbeing is part of the daily conversation.

    Healthy Drivers = Safer Roads

    At the end of the day, your fleet isn’t just made up of vehicles. It’s made up of people. When those people feel supported, they drive safer, perform better and stay with your business longer. Investing in wellness isn’t a luxury. It’s a strategic move that pays off in the long term. So, let’s shift the conversation from just checking boxes to truly caring for the people behind the wheel.

  • Charging Ahead: The UK’s New Depot Charging Scheme Explained

    As the UK pushes forward with its net-zero ambitions, a major new initiative is set to help fleet operators make the switch to electric vehicles (EVs). The Depot Charging Scheme, officially launched on the 16th July 2025. This is a government-backed grant programme designed to support the rollout of EV charging infrastructure for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), vans, and coaches across the UK.

    This scheme is an important next step in decarbonizing the nation’s transport and logistic sectors and is a gamechanger for businesses that are ready to go electric.

    What is the Depot Charging Scheme?

    The Depot Charging Scheme provides financial support to help fleet operators cover the costs of installing EV charging points at their depots. While grants have long been available to help buy electric vans and trucks (Plug-in Van and Track Grant), the cost of installing the necessary charging infrastructure has remained a major barrier for many businesses.

    The scheme aims to close that gap by funding up to 75% of the cost associated with purchasing and installing charge points and related civil works at fleet depots. Including trenching, cabling and electrical upgrades. It is worth noting that the grant does not cover the cost of buying electric vehicles or upgrading connections, but it does make the infrastructure side much more affordable.

    Who Can Benefit?

    The scheme is open to a wide range of organisations across the UK, including:

    • Private and public sector fleet operators
    • Local authorities
    • Non-profit organisations

    To qualify, applicants must:

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    Be a registered fleet operator with at least one year of UK operations

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    Own their depot or have landlord consent to install charging equipment

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    Already own, lease or have ordered at least one battery-electric van, HGV or coach

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    Be able to complete all installation work by 31st March 2026

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    Have sufficient grid capacity in place by that date

    There is no limit on the number of depot sites an organisation can include in a single application, as long as all locations meet the eligibility criteria. However, each organisation can submit only one application. The scheme is available in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, but not in the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.

    Key Numbers at a Glance

    Funding available: Up to £1 million per applicant (covering 75% of eligible costs across all sites)

    • Launch date: 16th July 2025
    • Application deadline: 28th November 2025 or earlier if funding runs out
    • Installation deadline: all works must be completed by 31st March 2026
    • Claims window: Open from 1st September 2025 to 31st May 2026

    This means organisations need to act fast. With limited funding and a tight timeline, early preparation is essential.

    What Costs Are Covered?

    Covered

    Purchase of charge points (any speed or type)
    Labour and materials for installation
    Civil engineering works (e.g., groundworks, foundations)
    Electrical components and contractor services

    Not Covered

    Cost of electric vehicles
    Grid reinforcement or connection fees

    Applicants must provide quotes and proof of financing for their share of the costs. The government will assess whether the proposed costs are reasonable and aligned with the fleet’s needs.

    Support and Expert Guidance

    To help applicants navigate the process, the government has partnered with Cenex and the Energy Saving Trust, two leading organisations in low-carbon transport and energy innovation. They will provide expert advice and support, particularly during the second stage of the application process, where details plans, budgets and risk assessments are required.

    Why This Matters

    The transport sector is one of the UK’s largest sources of carbon emissions, and commercial vehicles are a significant contributor. The Depot Charging Scheme is a vital part of the government’s strategy to decarbonise freight, delivery, and passenger transport.
    By reducing the financial burden of installing charging infrastructure, the scheme makes it easier for fleets to transition to zero-emission vehicles. it works hand-in-hand with existing vehicle grants, creating a more complete support package for businesses going electric.

    Next Steps for Fleet Operators

    • If you operate a fleet of vans, HGVs or coaches and are considering electrification, now is the time to act:
    • Check your eligibility: Do you meet the ownership, operational and vehicle requirements?
    • Assess your depot(s): Do you have the space, grid capacity and approval (if needed)?
    • Gather quotes: Get detailed cost estimates from installers for charge points and civil works
    • Prepare your application: Use the templates provided by the government to build a strong case
    • Submit early: Funding is limited and applications are assessed on a rolling basis

    For fleet operators, this scheme represents a real opportunity to transition with confidence, knowing that support is available to help manage the upfront challenges of infrastructure investment.

  • FleetCheck system replaces spreadsheets at Cemplas Waterproofing and Concrete Repairs

    Cemplas Waterproofing and Concrete Repairs is replacing spreadsheet-based fleet management processes with a new FleetCheck system.

    The Surrey-based business, founded in 1969, has adopted the software specialist’s Essential level package for the running of its 34 cars and vans, as well as its grey fleet.

    Jo Burton, office manager at Cemplas Waterproofing and Concrete Repairs, explained there were three key objectives behind the move – ensuring all fleet information was easily available, using technology to speed up manual processes, and making sure that the fleet was compliant.

    “Under our old system, I’d have to physically search through spreadsheets stored in various locations and finding the right information was both difficult and time-consuming.

    “Now, everything we need is in one place and it’s so much easier, whether booking service and maintenance, processing fuel invoices, or ensuring relevant safety checks are carried out.

    “It’s not just a question of our fleet management now being faster and more accurate, or the time saved from using the FleetCheck technology, but the high level of stress surrounding vehicle operations has disappeared. We’re much more confident in our fleet processes.”

    The platform is also being used to improve the company’s grey fleet management, Jo said: “Previously, the in-house fleet was my priority. Now, all vehicles used on company business are on FleetCheck, including our grey fleet, and each receives the same level of attention.”

    Cemplas Waterproofing and Concrete Repairs has also adopted FleetCheck’s LicenceAssured licence checking software for a total of 75 drivers. Automated checks, alerts, and a comprehensive reporting dashboard are helping ensure compliance and improve drive communication

    Jo said: “This has been a game-changer in compliance terms. I simply enter the names of our drivers and the system does everything else, only notifying us if there is a problem.”

    Peter Golding, CEO at FleetCheck, said: “We’re very pleased to see Cemplas Waterproofing and Concrete Repairs benefitting so strongly from the adoption of our systems. Especially for smaller fleets, the move away from spreadsheet-based processes to specialist fleet software can be little short of revelatory.”

  • ZEV Update: The increasing need for pro-active van maintenance

    In January this year we published a white paper entitled The 2025 Diesel Van Shortage: How the ZEV Mandate Will Impact Your Fleet. With the SMMT having just released the figures for LCV registrations through to the end of June, we thought it was time to revisit this important topic.

    To recap, the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate came into law at the beginning of 2024 and sets out the minimum proportion of a van manufacturers’ sales that must be electric each year until 2035 when the sales of new petrol and diesel vehicles will be outlawed.

    The problem is that many fleets simply aren’t ready to move to electric vans because they don’t meet their needs – that might be down to one or more of a number of reasons, however, the main ones appear to be concerns over range, available charging infrastructure, payload capacity or acquisition costs and depreciation. Other challenges include inflated running costs if forced to use premium-rate charging.

    If manufacturers don’t meet the sales targets then they are supposedly on the hook for massive fines of £18,000 for every non-qualifying ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) vehicle they sell. While the government has introduced some flexibilities to help manufacturers manage the transition, such as borrowing EV credits from future years, these will only store up bigger problems to come if demand doesn’t increase significantly.

    In 2024, fleets bought or leased just over 22,000 new electric vans out of sales totaling 353,000 for the year – a paltry 6.3% against a government mandated target of 10%.

    The situation for 2025 so far is even worse. While EV sales as a share of total vans sales are slightly up at 8.6% for the year to date, that has to be viewed against a much higher target of 16%.The manufacturers are therefore offering huge incentives to take on electric vans (irrelevant if they aren’t right for your business) and removing discounts from diesel vans, with the result that many fleets are simply sitting on their hands and doing nothing – hence the current 15% drop in new diesel van registrations for the first half of the year.

    In order to further encourage demand, the Government recently launched a series of initiatives. The reintroduction of grants towards the cost of new BEVs should help, but support will also be needed in the second-hand market if this isn’t to further depress residual values.

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    A few days later, the government also introduced a grant scheme where public and private sector organisations can apply for support to install EV charging infrastructure at their depots. While this support is badly needed, it likely won’t have an immediate effect on sales as operators will need to go through a lengthy process of applying for the grant, sourcing a supplier and commissioning the installation.

    All of this reinforces what we at FleetCheck have been saying for over a year now – that fleets are increasingly going to find themselves running older, higher mileage fleets of diesel vans where EVs aren’t suitable and replacement diesels have become too expensive, if they can be bought at all. And this needs major consideration if those fleets are to continue running safe, roadworthy and efficient vans.

    Smaller fleets, who might traditionally purchase second-hand vans say five to ten years old, are going to struggle to access any vehicles at all as the number of available vans in the used market shrinks and scarcity keeps used values high. We’re already starting to see this play out, meaning some of those fleets are having to continue running vans that may now be ten or even fifteen years old.

    Maintaining your aging van fleet: A new era for fleet management

    Pro-active fleet management is now more critical than ever. The focus needs to shift from short van replacement cycles to diligent servicing, maintenance, and repair (SMR) regimes to keep these vehicles running safely and cost-effectively for longer.

    Fleets must now pay greater attention to routine tasks like timing belt replacements, potentially multiple times during a van’s working life, and address issues of perishable components that perhaps weren’t on your radar before. Ignoring manufacturer recalls or MOT advisories on older, high-mileage vehicles will lead to costlier repairs and decreased efficiency, impacting consumables like tires and fuel. Forward planning for SMR is essential due to potential parts availability strains, with some operators even considering retaining older vehicles for spare parts.

    Defect management is paramount
    Robust pre-use vehicle checks are crucial for identifying minor issues – like underinflated tyres or fluid leaks – before they escalate into dangerous and expensive problems such as blowouts or engine failure. This not only fulfills duty-of-care obligations but also ensures older vans remain roadworthy.

    Effective record-keeping and data collection
    This will provide invaluable insights into wear trends, helping you assess the economic viability of each vehicle in real time to make the right vehicle replacement decisions. Fleet managers must ensure drivers are trained properly on pre-use checks, that defects are promptly rectified, and policies are consistently enforced.

    Cost-cutting on maintenance is a false economy
    Despite budget pressures, cutting back on preventive maintenance is a false economy. Neglecting upkeep leads to unsafe vans, increased breakdowns, and significant financial risks. Furthermore, a poorly maintained fleet can jeopardise existing contracts as an increase in unplanned VOR time hits service reliability.

    In essence, adhering to manufacturer servicing, promptly addressing recalls, implementing rigorous pre-use checks with driver training, and meticulously analyzing maintenance data are vital steps to ensure your aging fleet remains safe, efficient, and compliant.

    What to do next

    If you’d like to discuss the implications of running a older, higher mileage vehicles as part of your fleet, and how FleetCheck can help ensure your vehicles are as safe and efficient as possible, give one of our team a call on 01666 575900.

    Other useful articles
    The 2025 Diesel Van Shortage: How the ZEV Mandate Will Impact Your Fleet
    The hidden dangers of wet timing belts: What fleet managers need to know

  • From Compliance to Confidence: Your Path to DVSA Earned Recognition with FleetCheck

    It’s 7am. A driver’s failed a roadside inspection, your phone’s ringing with updates from the DVSA, and you’re scrambling to replace a vehicle to meet a tight customer deadline, all while totting up in your head: how much is this going to cost in downtime, potential fines, and reputational damage? This constant reactive state of compliance and putting out fires is exhausting. But it’s also avoidable.

    The DVSA’s Earned Recognition was born from one critical question: What does ‘good’ really look like?
    This isn’t just another regulatory box to tick, or a way for the DVSA to keep tabs on your operations and ‘catch you out’. It’s your chance to move one step ahead of reactive compliance – and become recognised as one of the safest, most compliant, and professional operators on the road. This recognition translates into fewer roadside stops, lower insurance premiums, less administrative burden, and stronger standing with both Traffic Commissioners and commercial clients. With the right systems in place – automated KPI tracking, dedicated dashboards, audit-ready reports, and clear oversight – meeting the scheme’s requirements is more achievable than you think.

    That’s where FleetCheck comes in…We help you turn compliance from a cost into an advantage.

    How FleetCheck Supports Your ER Journey

    FleetCheck is a DVSA-validated IT supplier for Earned Recognition, so can monitor, manage, and report your maintenance compliance from one place. This means you can easily demonstrate that you’re meeting your O-licence requirements – digitally, and in real-time.

    Be Audit Ready – With Less Stress
    Every two years, ER operators undergo a DVSA-authorised audit. These audits go beyond compliance checks, covering areas like:

    • Driver wellbeing
    • Training
    • Counter-terrorism awareness
    • Vehicle maintenance and testing
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    With FleetCheck’s built-in ER dashboard (included as standard at no extra cost), you have a live overview of all your vehicle records. You’ll be able to track key DVSA indicators in real time – including inspection schedules, MOT outcomes, and defect reporting and resolution – giving you time to spot potential issues and rectify them swiftly, before the information goes to the DVSA.

    Meet Your KPIs With Ease
    FleetCheck helps you stay on top of the vehicle-related Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that form the backbone of the Earned Recognition scheme. Reports are automatically generated and sent to the DVSA via email, making compliance simpler and more reliable. Because all your data is pulled together and formatted to meet DVSA standards, you can clearly visualise your KPIs and see how you’re performing, as well as confidently submit accurate, up-to-date information – without the usual admin headache.

    Want to test your current performance? FleetCheck lets you explore the ER dashboard before formally joining the scheme, so you can benchmark your fleet’s compliance and readiness. To support your journey, you can use our ER checklist to help you carry out a full self-assessment to see if your fleet meets the required criteria.

    Are You a New Operator?
    If you’ve held your O-licence for less than 6 months, you’re not yet eligible to join Earned Recognition – but that doesn’t mean that you can’t start preparing. Through the Road to Earned Recognition Scheme, new operators can start building best practices and good compliance into their business from the get-go. With FleetCheck, you’ll have the tools to track KPIs, avoid early pitfalls, and demonstrate a proactive approach to safety – so when the time comes, you’re ready to apply for ER with confidence.

    You’re Always in Control of Your Data
    Concerned about visibility? The DVSA does not have unrestricted access to your fleet data. Instead, they receive a PDF snapshot of your vehicle KPI metrics every four weeks. FleetCheck also gives you a two-week preview window before submission, so you can review your data, investigate any anomalies, and provide explanations if needed. And while FleetCheck focuses on vehicle KPIs, for your driver compliance we partner with VDO, Europe’s leading tachograph software, giving you a complete compliance solution across the board.

    Real Results: How Wolseley Made It Work

    The best part is how this all plays out in real business. Wolseley, a FleetCheck client, has held Earned Recognition status for over three years. With 950 vehicles across 250 depots, staying on top of compliance from a central hub wasn’t easy, but they were determined to lead the industry.

    With FleetCheck and ER, they’ve achieved:

    • PMI slippages dropped from 3-4 per month to 3-4 per year
    • Tachograph infringements rates down to 4%
    • Defect rectification is faster and more automated
    • £33 million fleet investment over 4 years
    • Peace of mind – their compliance Manager can sleep at night, even after serious incidents, knowing their systems are rock solid

    Remember: the best operators aren’t just following rules – they’re setting the standard. And with Earned Recognition and FleetCheck, the tools to get there have never been more accessible.

    Find Out More

    Ready to take your fleet operations to the next level and prove yourself as an exemplary operator? Contact FleetCheck today to discover how our system can help you alleviate your Earned Recognition concerns and give you peace of mind that your fleet operations are safe, compliant, and commercially viable. Visit Gov.uk for detailed scheme information, or email DVSAER@DVSA.gov.uk or R2ER@DVSA.gov.uk to enquire and apply today.

  • FleetCheck Guide: Safe Summer Driving

    Summer brings longer days, holiday traffic, and many unique challenges for drivers. Whether you’re heading out on a family adventure or managing a commercial fleet, understanding the risks and best practices for summer driving is crucial for safety and efficiency.

    Key Hazards of Summer Driving

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    Heat-Related Fatigue and Dehydration
    • High temperatures can cause fatigue and irritability, reducing concentration and reaction times.
    • Even a 5% drop in hydration can lead to a 30% decrease in concentration. Keep a bottle of water in your vehicle and drink regularly to stay alert.
    • Sun glare is intensified in summer. Keep windscreens clean and wear sunglasses to reduce eye strain and improve visibility.1
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    Increased Traffic and Unfamiliar Road Users
    • Summer holidays mean more vehicles on the road, including caravans, horseboxes, cyclists, and pedestrians. Many may be unfamiliar with the routes, leading to sudden stops or erratic manoeuvres.
    • Construction and road maintenance are common in summer, causing congestion and tempting drivers to rush once clear of roadworks. Plan routes and allow extra time for delays.

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    Vehicle Wear and Tear
    • Tyre pressure: Higher temperatures increase tyre pressure, raising the risk of blowouts. Check tyre condition and pressure monthly. For every 10° increase or decrease in temperature, tyre pressure can be affected by approximately 1-2 PSI (0.1 bar), even if the vehicle hasn’t been driven.2
    • Coolant and Engine: Hot weather can lead to overheating. Regularly top up coolant and turn off the engine if stuck in traffic to prevent overheating.
    • Air Conditioning: Pools of water under your vehicle are often from conditioning condensation, not leaks. Vapour from vents is normal in hot weather.
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    Distractions and Reduced Attention
    • Drivers tend to be more relaxed and easily distracted in summer, especially with increased sunlight and longer journeys. Stay focused and avoid using mobile devices or adjusting infotainment systems while driving.
    • After rain, roads can become extra slippery, particularly following long dry spells. Driver carefully and adjust speed as needed.

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    Prepare Your Vehicle

    • Check tyres for pressure and tread wear
    • Top up fluids: coolant, oil, brake fluid, and windscreen wash
    • Maintain a clean windscreen to reduce glare
    • Test air conditioning before long trips
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    Prepare Yourself

    • Stay hydrated and take regular breaks, especially on long trips
    • Wear sunglasses to combat glare
    • Avoid driving tired plan rest stops and share driving if possible
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    Plan Ahead

    • Expect heavy traffic and plan routes to avoid peak times and known construction zones
    • Share the road with vulnerable users; give cyclists, horse riders, and pedestrians plenty of space 3
    • Pack an emergency kit including water, first aid, phone charger, and sun protection
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    Stay Alert to Changing Conditions

    • Look out for loose chippings, especially near roadworks, which can damage your vehicle
    • Be aware of sudden weather changes. Rain after dry spells can create slippery surfaces
    • Keep an eye out for unfamiliar road users who may make unexpected manoeuvres

    Common Summer Driving Myths; Debunked

    Myth Reality
    Pools of water under the car means leaks Often just condensation from air conditioning
    Vapour from vents is a problem Usually harmless water vapour from the air conditioning unit
    Engine noise means trouble Roaring may simply be the cooling fan operating as intended
    Less power in hot weather means a fault Warm, less dense air can reduce engine efficiency; not always a sign of mechanical issue

    Plan Better Journeys

    Long drives to the coast, family getaways, or airport runs are all part of summer. But a safer, less stressful trip starts with more than just checking your vehicle. Taking regular breaks is essential, yet nearly 30% of drivers don’t think about rest stops when planning their route.
    By building in time to pause, stretch, pr explore a local spot, you’ll stay alert and make the drive more enjoyable. From service areas to fam shops and scenic places to walk the dog, there are plenty of options to break up your journey and make lasting memories. As part of National Highways TRIP campaign, they have created this really useful list of all the rest stops for your to consider when travelling on the M1, M5, M6, M25, M40, A1(M) A30 and the A46. So remember to use the National Highways guidance before setting out on a long journey:
    Top-up, Rest, Inspect, Prepare.

    Safety First

    Summer driving can be enjoyable but requires extra vigilance. By preparing both your vehicle and yourself, staying hydrated, and anticipating the unique challenges of the season, you can ensure safer, smooth journeys for everyone on the road.

  • Vauxhall cancellation of hydrogen van launch “major blow” for fuel’s UK future

    News that Vauxhall is cancelling the launch of its new hydrogen panel van is a “major blow” for fleet adoption of the fuel in the UK, says FleetCheck.

    Peter Golding, CEO at the fleet software specialist, said the model would have provided the best available chance for operators to assess the viability of hydrogen in real world conditions.

    “We have been arguing for some time that hydrogen has a potentially important part to play in the future of zero emissions vehicles, especially in the light commercial sector where electrification is proving difficult for many businesses.

    “The Vauxhall van promised a very real opportunity for that to happen and the news their parent company Stellantis has decided to halt all production plans until at least the end of the decade is a major blow. We believed the UK launch was imminent.”

    He said the reasons cited by Stellantis – poor availability of refuelling facilities, the high investment required and insufficient incentives to purchase – were all understandable, but this remained a disappointing moment.

    “We talk to operators every day who would like to electrify their van fleet but are hitting issues with range, payload and charging times. The promise of hydrogen is that it offers zero emissions without any of these compromises, and the Vauxhall proposition was the opportunity to try this in the form of a familiar vehicle from a major manufacturer.

    “Yes, significant hurdles would’ve remained, the biggest of which was the almost complete absence of a refuelling infrastructure. However, with no van, there is no way forward.”

    Peter pointed out the Stellantis decision followed a recent announcement from BMW that its new hydrogen car would not be coming to the UK because of the lack of fuelling facilities.

    “In making that announcement, BMW called on the UK government to match the EU’s ambition for a hydrogen filling station every 120 kilometres but that level of commitment hasn’t stopped Stellantis cancelling their van across the whole Europe. That’s a sad fact you can’t help but feel could weight on future political thinking about hydrogen.

    “While some truck and bus options remain, it feels as though in car and van terms, the hydrogen project is in decline and even effectively dormant for the foreseeable future.”

  • Earned Recognition MOT failure rate is a third of other fleets, FleetCheck data shows

    The MOT test failure rate for fleets using the Driver Vehicle Standards Agency’s (DVSA) Earned Recognition scheme is a third of other operators, new data from FleetCheck shows.

    The figures were compiled following recent news that the DVSA and Department for Transport (DfT) have decided not to add delegated MOT testing to Earned Recognition, a move met with widespread industry disappointment.

    FleetCheck’s figures, covering more than 72,000 HGV and trailer records from 2023 onwards, show the MOT failure rate to be 1.56% for Earned Recognition fleets compared to 4.54% for others.

    Barrie Wilson, the company’s commercial fleet consultant, said: “Our software is Earned Recognition approved and we can therefore see from our data the levels of compliance achieved by these fleets. Set alongside other operators, their performance is impressive.

    “Not only is there a marked difference in the failure rate but in the pass rate, too. Earned Recognition fleets are hitting a 95.74% pass rate, against 91.97% for their non-ER counterparts.”

    He added that while his company fully supported and shared the DVSA and DfT’s commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards, the data told a compelling story.

    “For Earned Recognition fleets using systems like ours, compliance isn’t just assessed once a year – it’s monitored daily against DVSA KPIs. An MOT provides a snapshot in time, whereas ER delivers a continuous picture of performance. While we are, to a large extent, agnostic in this debate, when operators are already consistently meeting or exceeding these benchmarks, delegated testing arguably becomes a logical next step.”

    FleetCheck’s role in Earned Recognition was to provide the technological infrastructure that enables real-time KPI reporting and 360-degree fleet compliance visibility, Barrie said.

    “With a dedicated Earned Recognition dashboard and tailored reporting tools, accredited fleets can benchmark their performance year-on-year and gain a live, day-to-day understanding of how they’re tracking against DVSA standards.”

    The DVSA’s Earned Recognition is a voluntary scheme that allows fleets to prove they meet driver and vehicle standards by continuously monitoring their own compliance using approved software such as FleetCheck’s.

  • Takeaways from the Earned Recognition Webinar: Wolseley’s impressive three-year result

    What does best-in-industry compliance really look like—and how do leading operators use it as a competitive edge?

    That’s what we explored in our latest webinar The Road to Earned Recognition: Building industry best practice and compliance into your fleet, with Phil Breen, Earned Recognition Account Manager for the DVSA and Jess Partridge, National Compliance Manager at Wolseley.
    Between them, they offered both the regulator’s view and a real- world operator’s perspective on what it takes to achieve and maintain Earned Recognition status, and why it’s worth it.

    1. Compliance: It’s Cheaper (and Safer) Than the Alternative

    Phil Breen set the tone with a simple but powerful statement: “compliance should always be cheaper than non-compliance.” It flips the traditional view—positioning compliance not as a cost centre, but as a strategic asset that can provide real business value.
    He was clear that the DVSA’s role isn’t to create more red tape. Their approach: enable, prevent, respond—is about helping operators succeed, not just catching them out.
    Earned Recognition works because it rewards that effort. Operators benefit from fewer roadside stops, ongoing DVSA support, and access to new opportunities—whether that’s eligibility for TfL contracts, HS2 work, or simply building a reputation that customers trust.

    2. Real-World Stories: Why Culture Matters

    Phil shared some stark examples: vehicles arriving for MOT with Coke cans taped over exhausts, tyres so worn the inner liner was visible. These aren’t one-offs—they point to a deeper issue where safety culture breaks down and risks multiply.

    The takeaway? A strong safety culture isn’t a ‘nice to have’ it’s a frontline defence against reputational, operational, and legal fallout. And it must extend beyond your own fleet.
    Phil urged operators to look outward too: Are your contractors and partners as committed to compliance as you? If not, in the eyes of the regulators and customers alike, their failures can become your liability.

    3. Earned Recognition: What’s In It for You?

    So, why consider the DVSA’s Earned Recognition Programme?

    In short, it’s a voluntary scheme that rewards operators who are already doing things right. By sharing key compliance data with the DVSA, you can reduce the likelihood of roadside stops and audits. That means less disruption to your business and more time to focus on what matters.

    4. The Audit Process: Support, Not Stress

    The DVSA’s position is clear: the Earned Recognition audit isn’t designed to catch you out; it’s designed to help you improve. Think of it as a comprehensive, evidence-based review, more like a business health check than a bureaucratic hurdle. The goal is to make sure you’ve got the right systems, training and documentation in place so if something does go wrong, you’ve got the evidence to show you were doing everything right.

    Once you’re up and running, operators submit KPIs every four weeks, giving both you and DVSA a real time view of compliance. These include:

    Safety Inspection Records
    Defect Rectification
    MOT pass rates
    Driver hours compliance
    Working time
    O licence compliance

    But here’s the key: if something’s off, you won’t be punished, you’ll be supported. Phil explained that most operators get in touch proactively if they think an alert might be triggered. When they do, DVSA’s approach is collaborative: they’ll speak with you, your transport managers, or even your drivers to work through the issue.

    It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being open, proactive and committed to improvement. That’s what Earned Recognition is really for.

    5. Operator Results: How Wolseley Turned Compliance into a Competitive Advantage

    Jess Partridge showed what’s possible when compliance becomes a strategic priority.
    Over the past three years, Wolseley has used the programme to transform their transport operation from the ground up. The results speak for themselves:

    PMI slippages cut from 3-4 per month to just 3-4 per year
    Tachograph infringement rates dropped to 4%, with a push for 1%
    £33 million invested in fleet and transport technology in four years
    New revenue from third-party contracts and backhauling opportunities

    But Jess’s most telling comment came when he described two serious incidents in the past year: “Five or six years ago, I’d have lost sleep over incidents like that. But now, we’re confident in our systems — we know we’ve done everything right, and we’re not worried about fallout or negative press”.
    This isn’t just about passing audits. It’s about confidence. Control. And creating a culture where compliance isn’t a burden, it’s a business advantage.

    A Connected, Tech-Driven Compliance Ecosystem
    What powered Wolseley’s transformation wasn’t just good intent, it was the right tools and processes working together:

    FleetCheck as a centralised platform for fleet oversight<
    Fully digital documentation across 250 depots
    Automated defect rectification in collaboration with maintenance suppliers
    Remote audit capabilities for real-time, location-agnostic compliance checks
    Driver compliance scoring to proactively manage risk
    Power BI integration to extract operational insights across multiple systems

    The cultural shift was equally important. Branch managers now take fleet compliance seriously, and transport has evolved from a cost centre to strategic advantage
    “Because we’ve concentrated on compliance and fleet transport so much in the last three years, the engagement with the branch managers now is, again, absolutely fantastic. They take it very seriously… and it’s hats off to the work we’ve done with transport fleet compliance.”

    Beyond the Basics
    Wolseley didn’t stop at regulatory minimums. They reduced their PMI schedule internally from eight weeks to seven, creating a built-in compliance buffer. They also:

    Introduced a Wolseley Permit to Drive, applying HGV-level compliance to van drivers
    Created a branded internal Transport Identity to unify depot culture
    Upgraded to a Standard National Operator Licence, unlocking new growth
    Centralised control over vehicle movements and utilisation across 250 sites

    All of this has redefined how transport is viewed inside the business; no longer a cost centre, but a commercial engine.

    6. Our Takeaways

    Three things became clear to during this session:
    1. The gap is widening. Clients, local authorities, and major contractors are increasingly looking for Earned Recognition status. If you’re not there yet, you might find yourself at a disadvantage.
    2. Good operators are more profitable. They’re winning contracts, reducing operational costs, and building sustainable businesses. Compliance isn’t holding them back – it’s helping them get ahead.
    3. Great operators think differently. Wolseley’s “Permit to Drive” system treats vans like HGVs because “they’re just as big a risk.” That mindset separates good operators from great ones.

    Next Steps: How Can You Raise the Bar?

    If you’re thinking about what’s next for your fleet, now’s a great time to review your own compliance culture. Are you confident in your processes? Do you know your supply chain inside out? Could Earned Recognition help you take things to the next level?
    There are plenty of resources out there, and as a DVSA validated software supplier for Earned Recognition, we’re always here to chat through your options or help you get started.

    Want to know more or talk through how Earned Recognition could work for your business? Get in touch—we’re here to help.