The DVSA is to make several changes to its OCRS system, which include removing the function that sees an operator’s score go straight to red if a single serious defect is discovered.
The changes, which are expected to be introduced early next year, also include revisions to the number of points given for various types of infringement; the inclusion of the results of traffic examiner visits or fleet assessments into the scoring system; and filters to ensure that points are not counted twice if a fixed penalty and prohibition are issued for a roadworthiness offence.
Speaking at the FTA’s Transport Manager Conference in London last week, DVSA senior traffic examiner for London Darren Webb said: “I had an operator last week [with] a fleet of 30 vehicles, a very good operator, that had one tachograph recording issue and it went straight to red. It’s no good for the operator and it’s no good for us, because we will be pulling in a red vehicle that might only have minor problems.
“Straight to red will be replaced with a more targeted approach to those who are most likely to commit a series of infringements.”
The revised system will also ensure that OCRS points are not given to operators that receive a verbal warning at the roadside.
“We give a lot of education at the roadside which is good, but because it’s recorded it can be misinterpreted and it adds to the OCRS score,” he added.
Operators under the DVSA’s earned recognition scheme will also be treated differently under the improved OCRS, and will not be targeted for inspection unless something is visibly wrong with their vehicles.
The revised system is expected to launch in early 2017 and will coincide with the introduction of the traffic commissioners’ (TCs’) revamped IT system for O-licence applications, which has been pushed back from the August 2016 launch previously expected.
London and the South East TC Nick Jones said around 50 operators are testing the IT system, called Vehicle Operator Licencing Service, which is expected to cut O-licence application processing from nine to seven weeks.
