A tipper operator must wait to learn what action will be taken against its licence while VOSA carries out an investigation of its tachograph records. North Western Traffic Commissioner Beverley Bell adjourned an inquiry into Derbyshire tipper operator David Mellor to allow a thorough investigation of the firm's records to take place.
The TC was unhappy that tachograph analysis reports from an outside agency appeared to show offences by drivers at the Ashbourne-based company. The firm holds a licence for 15 vehicles and 16 trailers.
Director David Mellor conceded drivers had not received any training since February 2006 and admitted he had not acted against a driver found to have falsified tachograph charts in April, saying he intended to give him a written warning. He had not asked the tachograph bureau carrying out the analysis why they had not noticed the offence.
Mellor said he spoke to drivers when infringements were flagged up but did not keep a record or ask them the reason. He admitted there was no written disciplinary procedure.
The TC said the analysis reports showed apparent overlapping traces, a driver constantly opening the tachograph head, and power interruptions, as well as drivers' hours infringements, including a 15-hour driving day. She did not like the look of the analysis reports and thought the company had a major problem.
She said the tachograph situation would be considered by a Deputy Traffic Commissioner once there had been a full investigation by VOSA.
Analysing hours problems
The TC believed the firm might know about breaches of drivers' hours rules as it was paying for an analysis that was highlighting problems.
Year: 2023 | Body Type: Tipper | Cab Type: Sleeper | Registration: PJ72VBD | Mileage: 302,337 km | Power: 423 bhp
Year: 2018 | Body Type: Tipper | Cab Type: Day | Registration: CX68UPD | Mileage: 89,688 km | Power: 130 bhp
