Trailer Safety Inspections
Shocking findings...
Agricultural trailers must be safe and properly maintained to avoid dangerous and costly accidents. But out of 1,000 trailers inspected by Tilly Pass, 84% had a serious brake defect and 58% needed worn wheel bearings replacing. Similarly, between July 2017 and January 2018, The National Towing and Trailer Association (NTTA) provided data from 307 free safety checks they conducted at NTTA certified servicing centres, which shocking results. 89 per cent of those trailers tested, failing NTTA checks with one or more defects recorded.
Agricultural Trailers - Legal Requirements
If used for work, a trailer will fall under the requirements of PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations) to provide safe equipment and the need to carry out routine checks. In addition, The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 specify the need for maintenance and use of vehicles so as not to be a danger to any person in or on the vehicle or trailer or on a road. Records of maintenance must be held by the trailer owner.
Safety Check List
Overall Condition
A visual inspection of the overall condition of the trailer is important. Look for any signs of rust, corrosion, or structural damage that could compromise the safety of the trailer.
Tyres
The tyres on any trailer should be inspected first and foremost for safety. Frequently check the tread depth and pressure of the tyres, and replace any that exhibit wear or damage.
Brakes
Inadequate brakes make it more challenging to control a loaded trailer. Routine brake checks should be carried out, and any brake pads that are worn or damaged replaced.
Bearings
Worn or damaged bearings can cause the trailer to become unstable and increase the risk of accidents. Check the bearings regularly and replace as necessary.
Hitch and Coupler
It is crucial to constantly inspect the hitch and coupler and repair any worn or damaged parts.
Lighting
The Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989 states that farm trailers must be equipped with a lighting system that includes stop lamps, direction indicator lamps, rear position lamps, rear registration plate lamps, and reflectors. Agricultural trailers must also have side marker lamps if the width of the trailer exceeds 1.3 meters.
Flooring
If the farm trailer's flooring is damaged, accidents and injuries may result. Inspect the flooring regularly and replace any worn or broken boards.
Suspension
Worn suspension systems can cause trailer instability, potentially leading to a crash.
Electrical Systems
Electrical system malfunctions may impact on the brakes, lights, increasing the chance of accidents. Regularly inspect the electrical system of the agricultural trailer and replace damaged or corroded wiring.
When completing any maintenance or safety inspections on the trailer, the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations should be adhered to.
Keep accurate maintenance records!
TOP TIP
The Tilly trailer Pass offers the opportunity for trailers to be maintained to the legal standard. Tilly Pass offer an annual 18 point inspection which is carried out on site by authorised mechanics. Upon completion of the test a Tilly certificate will be fixed to the tailgate of your trailer , clearly displaying a Tilly pass unique number. This will be recorded alone with your chassis number for a thorough record of your maintenance.
