A robust defect reporting system is fundamental to both compliance and road safety. All drivers must be trained to carry out daily walkaround checks and know how to report any faults they find. But for the system to work, management must take those reports seriously and act on them quickly.

Bridge strikes remain one of the most preventable yet costly incidents in UK transport. Each strike causes not only structural damage and traffic disruption but also risks to life and reputational harm to operators. Preventing bridge strikes begins with effective route planning. Use reliable route planning tools that take vehicle height into account, and ensure drivers are trained to verify their route and be aware of low bridges along the way. Clearly displayed height signage in cabs can serve as a last-minute reminder.

A compliance audit might sound like an expense, but it should be seen as an investment in your business’s future. Having an independent expert assess your systems, documentation, and operational procedures can identify weaknesses before they become critical and help improve overall efficiency.