The UVV inspection is an important aspect of the vehicle fleet. As part of the accident prevention regulations ( UVV), the vehicle inspection is an important task for fleet managers. The UVV vehicle inspection is required by law and, alongside the UVV driver instruction, is one of the central owner liability obligations in fleet management. In this article, you will find out what the UVV inspection is all about, how it is carried out, what you need to bear in mind and how fleet management software can support you.
Contents
- What is a UVV inspection in the vehicle fleet?
- What is the legal basis?
- Who carries out the vehicle inspection?
- Which vehicles are subject to the UVV test?
- What is checked during the UVV vehicle inspection?
- How much does the UVV test cost?
- What obligations do drivers have during the UVV vehicle inspection?
- What penalties apply if the UVV inspection is not carried out?
- Digital support for UVV inspections
What is a UVV inspection in the vehicle fleet?
A UVV inspection of company cars is a legally required safety check to ensure the safety and operational readiness of the vehicles. The vehicle inspection is part of the occupational safety measures and serves to prevent accidents at work and occupational illnesses.
The UVV inspection should not be confused with the main inspection (HU) or the exhaust emissions test (AU), which are also required by law. While the HU and AU primarily assess road safety and environmental compatibility, the UVV test focuses on the working and operational safety of the vehicle.
What is the legal basis?
The obligation to carry out the UVV test is regulated by DGUV regulation 70. Section 57 (1) of DGUV Regulation 70 also stipulates that the inspection must be carried out at least once a year.
§Section 57 (1) of DGUV Regulation 70
(1) The operator shall have vehicles inspected by an expert as required, but at least once a year, to ensure that they are safe to operate.
(2) The results of the examination in accordance with paragraph 1 shall be recorded in writing and kept at least until the next examination.
Whether the checks are carried out more frequently depends on the type and frequency of vehicle use and the specific regulations of the relevant trade association. The results of the UVV inspections must always be documented and stored in a traceable manner, as this serves as proof of the inspections carried out.
Who carries out the vehicle inspection?
All dates at a glance
Fleet+ fleet software allows you to keep track of all important dates in your fleet. With the appointment reminder, you will never miss an inspection appointment again.
Which vehicles are subject to the UVV test?
- Passenger cars, such as company cars and pool vehicles used by employees for business purposes
- Commercial vehicles, such as delivery vans, vans and panel vans
- Heavy vehicles, such as trucks, construction vehicles, tractor units and other heavy commercial vehicles
- Special vehicles, such as forklift trucks, construction machinery, agricultural vehicles, fire engines, ambulances or municipal vehicles
- Single-track motor vehicles such as motorcycles, mopeds and scooters.
For companies with company bikes in their fleet, it is important to note that certain e-bikesare also subject to the UVV test. E-bikes that reach a speed of over 25 km/h are considered motor vehicles. They are therefore also subject to the owner’s liability obligations.
Work machines and their technical vehicle components, such as chassis, lighting or braking and steering systems, may also be subject to testing. The prerequisite is that they either drive themselves or are used as trailers.
However, there are also a number of vehicles that are exempt from DGUV Regulation 70. This includes, for example, private vehicles that are used for business purposes but are the property of employees. Special machinery used in earthworks (e.g. soil compactors or excavators), aviation ground support equipment and agricultural and forestry vehicles are also not covered by the provisions of Regulation 70.
What is checked during the UVV vehicle inspection?
As part of the UVV vehicle inspection, various components and aspects of the vehicle are checked to ensure that it is safe and ready for operation. These include, among others:
- Lighting and electrics: headlights, tail lights, indicators, brake lights and other electrical systems such as wiring, starter and battery
- Steering: play, strength and general functionality
- Brakes: functionality and condition of the brake system, including brake pads, brake discs, brake fluid and handbrake
- Tires: Tire condition, including tread depth, air pressure and possible damage
- Exhaust system: check for leaks, damage or excessive exhaust emissions
In addition, these points must also be taken into account during the vehicle inspection:
- Vehicle fluids: Engine oil, coolant and windshield washer fluid
- Safety equipment: presence and functionality of safety equipment such as first aid kit, warning triangle and safety vest as well as functionality and condition of seat belts
- Bodywork: Inspection for corrosion, damage and defects
- Visual inspection: Check the windshield, windows and mirrors for cracks, damage and clear visibility.
How much does the UVV test cost?
What obligations do drivers have during the UVV vehicle inspection?
In addition to the annual vehicle inspection by a competent person, drivers are also obliged to carry out regular vehicle inspections. This is regulated by Section 36 (1) of DGUV Regulation 70:
(1) The driver must check the effectiveness of the operating and safety devices before the start of each work shift and observe the condition of the vehicle for obvious defects during the work shift.
(2) The vehicle driver must report any defects found to the responsible supervisor, and in the case of a change of vehicle driver also to the replacement. In the event of defects that jeopardize operational safety, the vehicle driver must cease operation.
What penalties apply if the UVV inspection is not carried out?
It is important to carry out the UVV inspection regularly and properly. Anyone who only completes the vehicle inspection irregularly or not at all is committing an offense according to § Section 209 (3) SGB VII is an administrative offense and risks a fine of 2,500 euros to 10,000 euros.
In the event of a claim , proof must also be provided that the tests have been carried out, otherwise the insurance company may refuse to pay. In addition, there may be legal consequences in the event of an accident if the UVV vehicle inspection is not carried out.
Digital support for UVV inspections
Companies and fleet managers are dependent on external experts for UVV inspections. The organization of the controls is therefore usually associated with higher costs. Fleet software supports you with appointment management and automatically reminds you of upcoming and overdue deadlines, such as for the UVV inspection, HU or AU. You can assign all documents and vehicle records such as test reports to the relevant vehicle and save them in the digital vehicle file. In this way, fleet management software can support you in complying with owner liability obligations.
Keep an eye on all UVV inspection deadlines with Fleet+
Conclusion
- In addition to driver instruction, the UVV inspection is essential for compliance with owner liability obligations in the fleet. The inspection of all vehicles in the fleet is intended to prevent accidents and ensure safety in the workplace.
- Not only cars are subject to mandatory inspection, but all vehicles used for business purposes must be inspected. A specialist inspects all required features such as tires, brakes and lighting.
- Fleet management software can remind fleet managers of important deadlines and thus contribute to compliance with the inspection obligation.
FAQ - Important questions on the subject of UVV inspections
Yes, the UVV inspection (accident prevention regulation) is required by law for company vehicles in Germany. According to Section 57 of DGUV Regulation 70, employers are obliged to have their vehicles regularly checked for safety and defects in order to prevent accidents and ensure road safety.
The UVV inspection must be carried out at least once a year. In addition, employers are obliged to have the vehicles checked for visible defects before each use. If a defect is found, it must be rectified immediately to ensure operational safety.
An expert inspector checks the company vehicles for necessary safety-relevant aspects such as brakes, lighting, tires, steering and general road safety. The inspection includes both a visual and a functional check. After a successful inspection, a test report is created, which serves as proof.
If the UVV inspection is not carried out, the company may face legal consequences, including fines and liability risks in the event of damage. Furthermore, in the event of an accident, insurance companies may refuse to pay benefits and the employer may be liable for damages.
Other useful articles on the subject of UVV inspections and vehicle fleets
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Employer Driving License Check: Legal Regulations and Tips for Implementation
Mobility Budget Instead of Company Car: Flexible Mobility for Employees
Bicycles in the company: A sustainable alternative for employee mobility
E-mobility in the Company: 5 Important Points of the Fleet Analysis
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