Risk assessments for longer semi-trailer use labelled ‘impractical’

New regulations for the use of longer semi-trailers (LST) come into force from Thursday (February 29) as official trials end.

The Government announced it was introducing new legislation to allow longer lorries on British roads last year. 

Operators are able to use longer semi-trailers combinations up to 18.55 metres – 2.05 metres longer than standard size.

However, with trials ending, fleet operators will now have to adhere to new rules around their use which are causing some concerns.  

The Road Haulage Association (RHA) says that operators have raised concerns over the requirements to provide a route plan and risk assessment for LST routes - driving up costs and making them less efficient.

“Hauliers face the impractical tasks of individually risk assessing every route and drivers are also expected to hold copies of risk assessments and route plans,” explained a RHA spokesperson.

“Some firms who have invested in LSTs say they will reduce their usage after this month.”

The RHA has asked ministers to reduce the bureaucracy and allow firms to operate LSTs as they did during the trials which were underway for more than a decade.

The spokesperson added: “We were advised last year that this would require a change in legislation – and we believe this could take a number of years.

“We successfully lobbied for an extension to the trial period which was due to end on 30 November 2023. Officials agreed to continue the trial period until 29 February 2024.

“We are advised that there won’t be any further extension.

“We have continued collaborating with the industry and government and convened conversations with operators and Department for Transport (DfT) officials to work on making guidance clearer.”

Vehicles which use LSTs will be subject to the same 44-tonne weight limit as those using standard trailers, and the new vehicles are expected to cause less wear on the roads than conventional lorries due to the type of steering axle used.

In addition to route planning and risk assessments, operators will also be expected to put in place extra safety checks including driver training and scheduling, record keeping, training for transport managers and key staff, and loading of LSTs.

Operators with concerns over implementation are advised to contact LSTtrial@risksol.co.uk.