Putting the Brakes on Risk
Changes are coming to HGV brake testing from April 2025! The latest update to the Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness is tightening requirements to ensure safer, more reliable braking systems for heavy goods vehicles. With these stricter rules, it’s crucial for operators, fleet managers, and drivers to understand what’s changing, why it matters, and how to stay compliant.
From April 2025, the DVSA will require every safety inspection to include a brake performance assessment. This means operators must Carry out a minimum of four laden brake tests per year—one of which can be the annual MOT test. Ensure all other safety inspections include a brake performance assessment, either via a roller brake test or a suitable alternative method. If using an Electronic Brake Performance Monitoring System (EBPMS), ensure that data is properly analysed and recorded before every safety inspection. Conduct a risk assessment whenever a laden roller brake test is not completed, documenting the reason and alternative measures taken.
These updates are designed to reduce brake-related defects and ensure HGVs meet modern safety standards on UK roads.
A roller brake test (RBT) is the most reliable way to assess an HGV’s braking efficiency. Here are the key points to ensure a successful test…
Correct DTp Number – Make sure the correct vehicle DTp number (Department for Transport number related to the braking information) is entered when conducting the test. Using an incorrect DTp number can lead to false results and compliance issues.
Watch for Brake Imbalance – Anything over 30% with locks or 20% with no locks needs to be inspected and retested, as this could be an indication of a serious issue with the braking system, and requires further investigation. Uneven braking can cause steering instability, pulling to one side, or even jackknifing in extreme cases.
Laden Brake Tests – At Least 65% Laden – A brake test must be fully representative of real-world driving conditions, which means ensuring the vehicle is at least 65% laden. An unladen or lightly loaded vehicle may pass the test but still be unsafe in real-world braking situations.
Record Keeping & Analysis – Ensure that all test results are properly recorded and reviewed. Any inconsistencies, failures, or advisory notes should be acted upon immediately, with corrective maintenance carried out before the next test.
The new brake testing requirements are a step in the right direction for enhancing HGV safety. However, they also present challenges for operators who may not currently conduct roller brake tests as frequently as required. Here are some key considerations…
Increased Workshop Demand – More frequent roller brake tests will put additional pressure on workshops and maintenance providers. Operators need to plan ahead to book brake tests in advance to avoid delays.
Better Use of EBPMS Data – Many fleets have Electronic Brake Performance Monitoring Systems (EBPMS) installed but don’t actively use the data. With the new rules, it will be essential to regularly analyse and document brake performance reports to ensure compliance.
Risk Assessments Now a Must – If a laden brake test is not conducted, a written risk assessment is required. This means operators must justify why a test wasn’t possible and document alternative safety measures taken. This adds another layer of compliance paperwork, but it is crucial to staying on the right side of the regulations.
Preparing for the Changes – Operators should start reviewing their brake testing schedules now to ensure they meet the minimum four laden tests per year requirement. Planning ahead will help avoid last-minute non-compliance issues when the changes take effect.
- James Walker, Revolution Transport consultancy | 24.02.2025