HGV Brake Testing | April 2025 Updates – What Does That Mean For Fleet Operators?

From April 2025, the DVSA is introducing new best practices for brake testing in vehicles over 3500kg Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) that require an Operator’s License. These updates will bring Laden Brake Roller Tests (also known as Meaningful Brake Tests or MBTs) or the use of Electronic Braking Performance Monitoring Systems (EBPMS) to the forefront of safety inspections. This change will help ensure more accurate braking assessments under real-world driving conditions. As per the updated guidance from the Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness.

What’s Changing?
Currently, HGVs undergo roller brake tests (RBTs) during safety inspections to assess braking efficiency. However, this method may not fully reflect braking performance when vehicles are loaded. To close this gap, the DVSA is proposing that brake tests be conducted with the vehicle fully laden, which will give a more accurate reading of braking performance.

What is Laden Brake Testing?
Laden Brake Testing evaluates the performance of a vehicle’s braking system when it is carrying a full load. This is more accurate than unladen tests, as braking performance can vary significantly when a vehicle is loaded. By performing these tests, operators can identify brake issues that may not be noticeable during unladen tests.

Key Takeaways from the New Guidelines

• Minimum Brake Performance: During an MBT, each axle must carry at least 65% of the Design Axle Weight (DAW) to ensure accurate results.
• Enhanced Accuracy: Testing brakes with a loaded vehicle mimics real-world conditions, ensuring brakes perform effectively under typical driving scenarios.
• Safety & Compliance: Regular laden brake tests lower the risk of accidents caused by faulty brakes and help operators meet DVSA and Traffic Commissioner regulations.
• Test Frequency: If your vehicle doesn’t have an EBPMS, the DVSA recommends conducting at least four laden brake tests per year, spaced evenly throughout the year. One of these tests will take place as part of the annual MOT inspection.
• Testing Flexibility: The DVSA allows for these tests to be completed up to 14 days before or on the scheduled safety inspection, making it easier to manage schedules. However, if a laden brake test is not carried out, operators must complete a Brake Assessment form, which will be available in the October 2024 GtMP Annex 7. This form should include a risk assessment to justify why the test wasn’t performed and be updated annually or whenever there is a change in vehicle use. The assessment must also be available for review during every safety inspection and retained with vehicle maintenance documents for 15 months.
• Exemptions: Certain vehicles may be exempt from the laden brake test, such as those carrying dangerous goods (ADR vehicles), livestock carriers, or public service vehicles like prisoner transfer vehicles. Vehicles operating under 50% of the permitted axle weight unladen or 65% of the time under 65% axle weight may also be exempt.

Why It Matters
By adopting these changes, operators can stay ahead of safety requirements, ensuring their fleets are safer and better maintained. Preventative maintenance through accurate brake testing can save time, money, and prevent costly mechanical failures down the line.

What’s Next for Fleet Operators?

To comply with these changes, you’ll need to ensure your vehicles are fully equipped for the new testing procedures. If you’re unsure about your current maintenance schedule or how to implement these new tests, Alltruck are here to help you every step of the way.

Remember, these changes might seem overwhelming, but once implemented, they’ll significantly enhance the safety of your fleet and ensure compliance with the updated regulations.

If you require further information or guidance on how these news changes effect your fleet, please get in touch on enquiries@alltruckplc.co.uk