At AS Miles Consulting, we regularly conduct unannounced gate checks to help businesses stay safe, compliant, and profitable. Recently, during one of these checks, we discovered a driver sitting on their seatbelt instead of wearing it properly—for the second time this week!
This particular incident involved a 3.5-tonne van, but the size of the vehicle is irrelevant. Whether it’s an HGV, PSV, or a smaller commercial vehicle, the risks remain the same.
Why Is This a Serious Issue?
Ignoring seatbelt laws is not just a minor offense; it has real consequences:
🔴 Increased risk of serious injury – Seatbelts are designed to save lives. A driver not wearing one is far more likely to suffer severe injuries in a collision.
🔴 Damage to the seatbelt system – Sitting on the belt can weaken it, making it less effective when actually needed.
🔴 Legal and financial consequences – If caught by DVSA or the Police, the driver could face a fine. For companies, failing to enforce compliance can lead to regulatory scrutiny and impact the O Licence.
🔴 Company disciplinary action – In this case, the driver will be facing disciplinary measures, as compliance is not optional—it’s essential.
The Power of Unannounced Gate Checks
The key takeaway? Gate checks work. This seatbelt violation was only identified because of an unannounced inspection—and neither the Managing Director nor the Transport Department knew we were coming.
Without these checks, how many other safety violations could be slipping through the cracks?
Regular audits, compliance checks, and proactive management help to:
✔ Identify safety risks before they lead to accidents
✔ Ensure all drivers are adhering to company policies and legal requirements
✔ Protect businesses from fines, penalties, and reputational damage
✔ Promote a culture of compliance and responsibility among drivers
Are You Confident in Your Compliance?
If issues like this are happening in your operation, it’s time to take action. Whether you need audits, training, or compliance support, our team is here to help.
📩 Get in touch today to ensure your operation is safe, compliant, and profitable.
