Guest Truck and Van urges fleet managers to focus on safety this winter

Guest Truck and Van is urging fleet managers to carry out additional vehicle inspections this winter to ensure drivers remain safe.

The Iveco and Fiat Professional dealer said ongoing maintenance is key to ensuring fleets remain safe and effective all year round, but when temperatures drop, it is even more important to make sure that all vehicles are prepared for the inclement weather and road conditions.

Guest Truck and Van recommends that, as routine, vehicles undergo a brake test when in for a periodic maintenance inspection - depending on the inspection frequency, this can be between every four to six weeks.

Adding a protective wax to help guard engine and driveline components against corrosion is also a good idea. However, winter tyres are a must for fleets to cope with poor road conditions.

Shaun Taylor, municipal, specialist vehicle and emergency services sales manager for Guest Truck and Van, said: “Winter tyres are not just for sub-zero temperatures - fleet managers should have them fitted once the temperature drops to 7°C.

“The composite rubber and silica compound keeps winter tyres flexible, which results in superior road grip.

“Of course, also ensuring sufficient tyre tread depth and adequate inflation is vital in icy conditions.”

Taylor adds that while all fleet managers should schedule vehicles to undergo additional winter testing, it is crucial for salt-spreaders and gritter trucks to have regular servicing throughout the season.