VOSA announces record high annual test results 10 November 2010

First time test failure rates for HGVs and PSVs have fallen below 30% for the first time since VOSA began logging results in 1992, according to the agency's 2009/10 effectiveness report.

The figure for 2009/10 stands at 27.4%, representing a 5% drop, compared with the 2008/9 result.

VOSA believes the improvement has been achieved in part thanks to its innovative approach to testing and closer links with the industry around achieving compliance.

For example, by making performance reports available online, VOSA has enabled operators to manage their own compliance more proactively, with 47% of operators now signed up.

"I am really encouraged by these latest figures," comments VOSA chief executive, Alastair Peoples. "A higher first time pass rate shows that roadworthiness standards are improving. This means safer roads for everybody."

Peoples also states that he and his team have worked closely with vehicle manufacturers on initiatives to drive up first time pass rates at their dealerships. By being given access to performance data provided by VOSA, manufacturers are now setting targets and incentivising dealers to ensure their vehicles pass first time, he explains.

In addition, he points to the fact that the agency has worked with industry to simplify testing standards, for example for headlamp aim in 2008, which has proved to be a success. Since then, an electronic method of assessing headlamp aim has been introduced, which has lead to improved pass rates.

Author
John Challen

Related Companies
Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)

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