Approximately one in three commercial vehicle drivers inspected by Road Safety Authority (RSA) officers so far this year were found to be non-compliant with EU driving and rest time and tachograph rules.

The RSA says its officers have checked 2,700 commercial vehicle drivers to date, with approximately 33 per cent deemed non-compliant. Break and daily rest infringements were the most common breaches recorded.

The findings underline the need for haulage operators and transport managers to build sufficient time into journey schedules, particularly where congestion, roadworks or adverse weather could delay drivers.

Journey planning under scrutiny

The RSA has reminded operators that they must ensure journeys are planned to allow drivers to comply with the rules.

That means accounting for foreseeable disruption when setting departure times, delivery slots and daily workloads. A schedule that leaves insufficient time for breaks or daily rest can create compliance problems when a journey takes longer than expected.

For Irish hauliers, the practical message is to review whether delivery commitments and planned workloads give drivers enough time to complete their duties while meeting their obligations.

Where delays arise, communication between the driver and transport office is essential so that schedules can be reviewed.

Breaks and daily rest remain key concerns

With break and daily rest infringements topping the RSA’s findings, operators should pay particular attention to how these requirements are accommodated in everyday operations.

Reviewing tachograph information and following up on recurring infringements can help identify where journey planning, driver understanding or operational pressures need attention.

Drivers have also been reminded to comply with driving and rest time and tachograph requirements. They should flag scheduling concerns and delays to their transport manager promptly.

The figures relate to drivers inspected by RSA officers and should not be interpreted as a non-compliance rate for all commercial vehicle drivers.

However, they provide a clear reminder for the sector: realistic journey planning must allow sufficient time for drivers to take the breaks and daily rest they need.

Further information is available through the RSA’s guidance link.