LGV Vehicle Safety Checks 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the minimum air pressure required before an LGV may be driven?
- The manufacturer's specified minimum operating pressure shown in the vehicle handbook (Correct answer)
- Any pressure above zero is acceptable
- 80 psi is universally acceptable for all vehicles
- Air pressure is irrelevant for disc brake vehicles
Correct answer: The manufacturer's specified minimum operating pressure shown in the vehicle handbook
Air-braked LGVs must have sufficient air pressure before driving. The vehicle handbook specifies minimum operating pressure. Driving with insufficient air pressure can result in brake failure.
Question 2: A driver notices oil on the ground under the vehicle during the walkaround check. What action should be taken?
- Investigate the source, do not drive the vehicle until the cause is identified and assessed (Correct answer)
- Wipe up the oil and monitor during the journey
- Continue the journey if the engine runs normally
- Only report if more than 1 litre of oil is visible
Correct answer: Investigate the source, do not drive the vehicle until the cause is identified and assessed
Oil on the ground under a vehicle could indicate a serious leak from the engine, transmission, or braking system. The driver must identify the source before driving. A hydraulic brake fluid leak could be life-threatening.
Question 3: What is checked when a driver tests the operation of the windscreen wipers?
- That wipers clear the screen effectively, are not damaged, and the washer fluid operates (Correct answer)
- Only that the wipers switch on
- That the wipers reach the correct speed only
- Wipers are checked during annual inspection only
Correct answer: That wipers clear the screen effectively, are not damaged, and the washer fluid operates
Wiper operation should include checking that the blades are not damaged or worn (which causes smearing), that they cover the swept area properly, and that the washer jets work and screenwash is at an adequate level.
Question 4: What is a 'prohibition notice' issued by DVSA?
- A legal order preventing the vehicle from being driven until the defect is rectified (Correct answer)
- A fine for operating an unsafe vehicle
- A temporary driving ban for the driver
- A requirement to attend a vehicle inspection centre
Correct answer: A legal order preventing the vehicle from being driven until the defect is rectified
A prohibition notice (S.9 or PG9) is issued by a DVSA examiner when a vehicle has a serious defect. An immediate prohibition means the vehicle cannot be moved. A delayed prohibition allows driving back to the operator's premises only.
Question 5: How often must an LGV undergo a statutory annual test (MOT)?
- Every 12 months (vehicles over 3.5 tonnes MAM) (Correct answer)
- Every 6 months
- Every 2 years
- Only when the operator deems necessary
Correct answer: Every 12 months (vehicles over 3.5 tonnes MAM)
Goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes maximum authorised mass must pass an annual test (MOT) every 12 months. The vehicle must not be used on public roads without a valid test certificate.
Question 6: What does a red brake warning light on the dashboard indicate?
- A serious brake system fault — stop safely and do not drive further (Correct answer)
- Normal brake wear indicator
- ABS is active
- Trailer brakes need adjustment
Correct answer: A serious brake system fault — stop safely and do not drive further
A red brake warning light indicates a serious fault in the braking system, such as low brake fluid, a hydraulic failure, or an air pressure problem. The vehicle should be brought to a safe stop and must not be driven until the fault is identified.
LGV Vehicle Safety Checks 3
What is the minimum air pressure required before an LGV may be driven?