Drivers' Hours and Tachographs Flashcards

What must a PCV driver do when they take over a vehicle fitted with a digital tachograph?

Answer: Insert their driver card, enter the country of start, and manually record any activities since last card withdrawal

The driver must insert their personal driver card and manually enter any unrecorded periods of work, rest, or availability.

What are the four mode symbols on a tachograph and what do they represent?

Answer: Driving (steering wheel), Other Work (crossed hammers), Availability (square), and Rest (bed)

The four tachograph modes are: Driving, Other Work, Period of Availability, and Rest.

How long must a PCV operator retain tachograph records?

Answer: At least 12 months, with driver cards downloaded every 28 days and vehicle units every 90 days

Tachograph records must be retained for at least 12 months, with regular downloads of driver cards and vehicle units.

What is multi-manning in drivers' hours regulations?

Answer: When multiple drivers share driving duties on the same journey, allowing different break patterns

Multi-manning is when two or more drivers are on the vehicle, allowing modified break and rest requirements.

What happens if a DVSA officer discovers that a tachograph has been tampered with?

Answer: It is a criminal offence with prosecution, heavy fines, and potential imprisonment

Tachograph tampering is a serious criminal offence that can result in prosecution, imprisonment, and loss of operator licence.

Under which circumstances can a PCV driver exceed the daily driving limit?

Answer: Only to reach a suitable stopping place for safety, provided road safety is not jeopardised

A driver may only exceed limits to reach a safe stopping place, and must record the reason on the tachograph record.