Key rules on Driver’s hours and Tachographs – HGVs

The key rules on drivers' hours and tachographs for Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) are designed to regulate the working hours, driving time, and rest periods of professional drivers. These regulations are crucial for promoting road safety and preventing fatigue-related accidents. The specific rules that apply can vary depending on the journey that is being undertaken and whether any exemptions apply that mean that EU rules do not apply. The Domestic drivers hours rules in respect of Good’s Vehicles are far less prescriptive than the EU rules but the majority of work undertaken for hire or reward will be under EU rules.

Drivers' Hours Rules for HGVs:

Daily Driving Limit:

The maximum number of hours a driver can spend driving in a single day under EU rules is usually 9 hours, with the possibility of extending to 10 hours twice a week. It is 10 hours a day for domestic work.

Daily Rest Period:

A minimum continuous rest period of 11 hours must be taken within a 24-hour period under EU rules, with a reduction to 9 hours allowed up to three times between two weekly rest periods.

Weekly Rest Period:

A minimum continuous rest period of 45 hours must be taken within a fixed week under EU rules. This can be reduced to 24 hours every other week, but the reduction must be compensated in the following week.

Breaks and Rests:

Drivers must take breaks during driving periods, and there are specific rules regarding the duration and timing of breaks under both sets of rules.

Tachograph Rules for HGVs:

Mandatory Use of Tachographs:

HGVs that may operate within the scope of EU driver’s hours rules are required to be equipped with tachograph devices to record driving time, rest periods, and other relevant information.

Recording Driving Time:

Tachographs record the driver's activities, including driving time, rest breaks, and other work-related periods.

Digital Tachographs:

Modern HGVs are equipped with digital tachographs, which store data electronically. They may include features such as automatic recording of location data.

Driver Cards:

Drivers are issued with digital tachograph driver cards, which are used to activate the tachograph and store data about the driver’s activities.

Download and Analysis:

Operators must regularly download and analyse tachograph data to ensure compliance with regulations and address any issues promptly.

Enforcement and Penalties:

The DVSA and Police conduct checks and inspections to analyse tachograph data. Non-compliance may result in penalties, fines, or a report to the Traffic Commissioner.

Training Requirements:

Drivers and operators are expected to undergo training on the proper use of tachographs and compliance with recording rules.

These rules are in place to ensure the safety of HGV drivers and other road users. Compliance with these regulations is essential for operators and drivers, and they play a crucial role in preventing fatigue-related accidents and promoting responsible working practices within the transport industry.