

Tacho analysis experts TruTac has warned operators of volumetric concrete mixers that they could “fall into a dangerous trap” if they are not prepared for new licensing and testing rules due to come into force.
A revision of the rules regarding vehicle testing exemptions means that approximately 29,500 HGVs will come under the scope of the goods vehicle testing regime and must be tested by DVSA staff at an ATF. This means certain categories of vehicles will fall under O-licence rules and must also comply with drivers’ hours rules.
The phased implementation of the new rules began in May and ends on 20 May 2019. From 1 September 2018, volumetric concrete mixer operators will require O-licences and volumetric drivers will have to work to EU drivers’ hours and Working Time Directive rules.
But TruTac said it had received calls from construction companies asking questions about the changes and said people may not be aware of the wider implications.
TruTac director of commercial operations Jemma James urged companies to find out if they are affected. “People are going to fall into a dangerous trap quite innocently, which is worrying,” she said. “It’s not a huge change that will shake up the industry, but it’s a major operational change with a lot of cost involved.
“It’s okay saying it will come under testing and the O-licence regime, but people don’t know about the further implications. Consider everything around drivers’ hours and all the other compliance requirements.”
However, a DVSA spokesman said that the DfT had consulted with the industry, and the DVSA had publicised the changes through press releases, its blog and via social media.
“There is continuing work going on to remind people that there is a phased testing period,” he added.