Body damage heads the list of the top five most common issues identified during commercial vehicle safety checks, according to new research by FleetCheck.

The software specialist says it is followed by windscreen damage, mechanical noises, failed bulbs and internal damage.

The results are based on 210,000 checks completed since the start of 2017 using the company’s mobile app, which is designed to provide a simple yet robust way of carrying out essential commercial vehicle safety checks.

Peter Golding, managing director at FleetCheck, said: “The data produced provides a useful insight into the kind of issues that fleets encounter when making safety checks.

“Certainly, the problems being identified could have a material effect on the safety of the commercial vehicles being used and illustrate the importance of making checks.”

The research also shows that the most common time for checks is 7-8am, with a further peak around 4-5pm. Each check takes an average of 95 seconds – although the type of check does vary widely for vehicle type.

Golding said: “You can clearly see from the data how fleets effectively integrate the check process into their working day as well as their diligence in carrying them out.”

Key features of FleetCheck’s app include the means to schedule, carry out, confirm, follow-up and audit all kinds of inspections for HGVs, vans, buses and coaches, from daily walkarounds to formal weekly or monthly checks.

It delivers a paper-free checking process, instant visibility of missed checks, uploading of relevant photos from drivers, bespoke checking for specialist equipment and automated mileage collection, says FleetCheck.

The app is compliant with DVSA safety and maintenance guidelines and integrates with FleetCheck’s fleet management software, which is in use by more than 700 customers totalling around 65,000 vehicles.

Users include including Blind Veterans UK, Tructyre, Hyperoptic and London and Quadrant Housing.

Golding added: “The app has proven to be one of our most successful products ever, delivering a robust, easy-to-use and effective electronic method of replacing an old school manual commercial vehicle safety check.

“We spent a long time in development ensuring that it works highly effectively in real-world fleet situations where safety processes can easily become a little ragged.

“The app creates an infrastructure that minimises the chances of this occurring, creating genuine safety gains.”