VOSA walk around check VIDEO on a curtainsided artic -
transportoffice.gov.uk/crt/r … ks-wmv.pdf
Safety check questions for lorries and buses
For printable version 
See below for vehicles towing a trailer C & C1, D & D1
Vehicle Safety Checks have always been part of the officially recommended syllabus for learning to drive.
The source material for LGV tests is to be found in the DSA publication ‘Driving goods vehicles, the official DSA syllabus’.
The source material for PCV tests is to be found in the DSA publication 'Driving buses & coaches the official DSA syllabus’Advice and information on how to carry out vehicle safety checks can also be found in the manufacturer’s handbook.
THESE ARE THE DSA LGV ON TEST SAFETY QUESTIONS - 5 or 6 asked on C test. Only 2 asked on CE test.
You can apply/relate most of these (to a certain degree) to your car.
- Identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil?
Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.
- Identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check that the engine has the correct level?
Identify high/low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.
- Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level?
Identify reservoir and explain how to check level.
- Tell me how you would check the condition of the windscreen & windows on this vehicle?
The windscreen and windows must be clean, clear and free from defects. No mascots or sticker that restrict view.
- Tell me how you would check the condition of the windscreen wipers on this vehicle?
Windscreen wipers must operate. Blades should be in good condition.
- Tell me how you would check your tyres to ensure that they are correctly inflated, have sufficient tread depth and that there general condition is safe to use on the road?
Follow manufacturer’s guide, using appropriate equipment, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold. Must have a tread depth of at least 1mm (1.6 for cars) across ¾ of the breadth of the tread and in a continuous band around the entire circumference. There should be no cuts, damage or signs of cord visible at the sidewalls.
- Show me how you would check the wheel nuts are secure on this vehicle?
A visual check to identify any nuts that are obviously loose, and check that the wheel nut indicators (if fitted) are in alignment.
- Show me how you would check the condition of the mudguards on this vehicle?
As part of daily walk-round check ensure mudguards and spray suppression equipment are secure.
- Tell me how you would check the condition of the suspension on this vehicle?
As part of a daily walk-round check, suspension should be checked for any obvious signs of deterioration or damage.
- Show me how you would check that all doors including cargo doors are secure?
All doors must be closed and locking levers for cargo doors (hatch or boot on car) are set in the recommended secured position.
- Tell me how you would check the condition of the body is safe on this vehicle?
As part of a daily walk-round check, ensure the body is fully roadworthy and there are no significant defects. No loose panels or items, which could endanger other road users. All inspection panels must be secure.
- Tell me how you would check the condition of the reflectors on this vehicle?
Ensure that all reflectors are fitted, clean, and functional (not cracked or broken)
- Tell me the main safety factors involved in loading this vehicle?
The load should be evenly distributed throughout the length of the vehicle so as not to affect control while the vehicle is being driven. Any load must be carried so that it does not endanger other road users. It must be securely stowed within the size and weight limits for the vehicle. The load needs to be secure so that it cannot move or fall from the vehicle when cornering or braking.
- Show me how you would replace the tachograph disc on this vehicle?
Candidate to demonstrate how to insert tachograph disc.
- Show me what instrument checks you would make before and after starting the engine on this vehicle?
Check to make sure all gauges and warning systems are working. Ensure that all gauges are reading correctly and that warning lights / audible warning devices are extinguished before moving away.
__- Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working?__If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey two simple checks can be made. Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained while the engine is started, should result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate. Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning.
- Show me how you would check for the correct air pressure on this vehicle?
Ensure gauges are reading the correct pressures for the vehicle and that all warning lights are extinguished and audible warning devices are not sounding.
- Show me how you would check for air leaks on this vehicle?
Charge the air tanks, Charge the air tanks, and consult gauges for drops in air pressure. Walk round vehicle listening for any obvious leaks.
- Show me how you would check the operation (specify horn, warning device for reversing) of the audible warning devices on this vehicle?
Demonstrate use of control.
- Show me how you would check that the headlamps, sidelights & taillights are working?
Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), walk round vehicle.
- Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working?
Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators.
- Tell me how you would check that the brake lights are working?
Operate brake pedal, ask someone to help or use a stick to hold the pedal down.
- Show me where the first aid equipment is kept on this vehicle?
Candidate to indicate equipment if carried. Where equipment is not present, candidates should be able to explain under what circumstances (i.e. vehicle types, loads carried) it must be provided.
- Tell me how you would operate the loading mechanism on this vehicle (vehicle specific i.e. Tail Lift)?
Candidates should be able to explain briefly the correct operation and safe working practice of specific machinery fitted to the vehicle, e.g. tail lift, kneeling bus. - if you have not got a tail lift then ask for another question.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS
- Are you satisfied that your cab locking mechanism is secure?
- Show me where the fire extinguishers are on this vehicle?
EXTRA ON-TEST SAFETY QUESTIONS FROM JULY 2008 WHICH MAY BE ASKED
- Show me how you would set the windscreen demister to clear the windows effectively
Set all relevant controls including; fan, temperature, air direction / source and heated screen to clear windscreen and windows. Engine does not have to be started for this demonstration.
- Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use it/them. (No need to exit vehicle)
Operate switch (turn on ignition and dipped headlights if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use.(no need to exit vehicle)
- Show me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam
Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light
- Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers
Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen (turn ignition on if necessary).