Lies prompt collapse of scaffolding firm

A Kent scaffolding firm whose operator lied to a deputy traffic commissioner about the use of one of its lorries has had its licence revoked. A1 Scaffolding, which traded out of an operating centre in Sandwich, appeared before deputy TC John Baker following an investigation that uncovered various failings.

The investigation was prompted by the operator’s application to increase the number of authorised vehicles, but the DVSA’s subsequent report found a lack of PMI records and inadequate driver daily walk round systems; a lack of systems for downloading driver or vehicle unit records; no disciplinary procedures and a failure by drivers to use their cards.

One vehicle was not specified on the operator’s licence until 10 months later and when this was queried at the PI, A1 Scaffolding director Farzad Takalobighashi claimed this was because it had been in the possession of a person called Kenny Coles who wanted to buy it.

It was only after DTC Baker reminded the director that it was better to be honest and tell the truth that Takalobighashi changed his story and admitted he had been using the vehicle during the whole period it had not been specified on the licence.

In a written decision, the DTC said he could not trust the operator and, as well as the revocation, he also disqualified the director for a year.