PCV Safe Vehicle Loading 2

Question 1

What is the maximum permitted weight for a fully laden double-decker bus in the UK?

Accepted Answer

18,000 kg

Answer

The maximum permitted weight for a fully laden double-decker bus in the UK is 18,000 kg (18 tonnes). This is set by Construction and Use regulations and must not be exceeded to ensure safe braking and road surface protection.

Question 2

When loading luggage into a coach's luggage compartment, what should you check first?

Accepted Answer

That the compartment weight limit is not exceeded

Answer

Before loading luggage into a coach's luggage compartment, you must check that the compartment weight limit is not exceeded. Overloading individual compartments can affect the vehicle's stability and handling.

Question 3

How should heavy items be positioned when loading a PCV?

Accepted Answer

Low down and near the centre of the vehicle

Answer

Heavy items should be positioned low down and near the centre of the vehicle. This keeps the centre of gravity low, improving stability and reducing the risk of the vehicle rolling over.

Question 4

What documentation must a PCV driver have access to regarding the vehicle's weight limits?

Accepted Answer

The vehicle's plate showing maximum weights

Answer

A PCV must display a plate showing its maximum weights, including gross vehicle weight and individual axle weights. The driver must be familiar with these limits and ensure they are not exceeded.

Question 5

You are driving a coach and notice the vehicle is pulling to one side. What could this indicate about the loading?

Accepted Answer

The load is unevenly distributed

Answer

A vehicle pulling to one side often indicates that the load is unevenly distributed. When more weight is on one side than the other, it causes the vehicle to drift in that direction.

UK PCV Theory Practice Test

UK PCV Theory Practice Test

PCV Safe Vehicle Loading 2