Tachographs are devices that record information about a vehicle’s speed, location and driver’s hours of service. A tachograph is required by UK law when a Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV), otherwise known as a van, exceeds 3.5 tonnes in weight or is towing a trailer. In this instance, a tachograph can be a valuable tool for fleet managers overseeing a van fleet. Van tracking, possible with tachographs, can help fleet managers to:

•       Ensure that drivers are complying with hours of service regulations.
•       Identify drivers who are at risk of fatigue.
•       Improve fleet safety.
•       Reduce fuel costs.
•       Improve driver productivity.

There are two main types of tachographs: analogue and digital. Analogue tachographs use a paper chart to record data, while digital tachographs store data electronically. To use a tachograph, you will need to:

•       Install the tachograph in your vehicle.
•       Obtain a tachograph card for each driver.
•       Train your drivers on how to use the tachograph.

Once the tachograph is installed and your drivers are trained, you can start using it to collect data. The data can be downloaded from the tachograph and analysed using specialised software. Tachographs can be a valuable tool for fleet managers. By using tachographs, you can improve fleet safety, reduce fuel costs and improve driver productivity.

Here are some additional tips for using tachographs for your fleet business:

•       Make sure that your tachographs are properly calibrated.
•       Regularly download and review the data from your tachographs.
•       Use the data to identify drivers who are at risk of fatigue and take corrective action.
•       Train your drivers on how to use the tachograph and the importance of complying with hours of service regulations.

By following these tips, you can get the most out of your tachographs and improve the safety and efficiency of your fleet.

Benefits of using tachographs for your fleet business

There are many benefits to using tachographs for your fleet business. Some of the most important benefits include:

• Improved safety: Tachographs can help improve safety by ensuring that drivers are not driving when they are fatigued. Fatigue is a major factor in accidents, and tachographs can help reduce the risk of accidents by preventing drivers from driving when tired.
• Reduced fuel costs: Tachographs can help reduce fuel costs by ensuring that drivers are driving efficiently. Tachographs can track driver speed and idle time, and this information can be used to identify areas where drivers can improve their driving efficiency.
• Increased productivity: Tachographs can help increase productivity by ensuring that drivers are using their time effectively. Tachographs can track driver hours of service, and this information can be used to identify areas where drivers can improve their productivity.
• Compliance with regulations: Tachographs are required by law in many countries. By using tachographs, you can ensure that your fleet is in compliance with the law. This can help protect you from fines and other penalties.

The bottom line

If you are a fleet manager, you should consider using tachographs. Tachographs can provide a number of benefits, including improved safety, reduced fuel costs, increased productivity and compliance with regulations. Once the tachograph is installed and your drivers are trained, you can start using it to collect data and manage your fleet conveniently.