The National Trailer & Towing Association (NTTA) has launched an exciting initiative: the UK’s first Free Safety Check program for the light trailer industry. The program is designed to help owners ensure their trailers are safe and roadworthy, highlighting potential issues before they become serious problems.
The checks cover all trailers, both braked and unbraked, up to 3,500kg gross weight, and can be carried out at any participating NTTA Trusted Workshop Member. The Free Safety Check is a visual inspection that provides an overview of a trailer’s general safety, and if any issues are identified, owners have the option to have them repaired.
Safety First: Early Operations Reveal Issues
The initiative comes amid growing concerns over trailer safety. Working alongside the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service and the Central Registration & Identification Scheme, officers conducted the first Caravan and Trailer operation of the season on 4th April 2017, at Junction 19 of the A12 trunk road, Chelmsford, near Boreham Services Lorry Park.
Of the 34 vehicles stopped, 21 were towing trailers and 11 towing caravans. Only 12 vehicles were found to be completely free of faults. Among the issues discovered: two vehicles were 15% over the maximum authorised mass, resulting in fines of £600; several vehicles had tyres older than the recommended five years; eight had incorrect or missing breakaway cables; and some towing caravans lacked extendable mirrors.
One driver faced a £100 fine and 3 penalty points for operating a trailer with a seized braking system. Four drivers were issued fines and three licence points for not holding the correct BE driving licence category.
What the NTTA Free Safety Check Covers
The NTTA’s Free Safety Check is a visual inspection only, but it covers a comprehensive range of components to give trailer owners peace of mind. Items inspected include:
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Lights and electrics
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Brake cables (if applicable)
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Tyre condition and pressures
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Wheel alignment
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Drawbar and handbrake operation (if applicable)
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Breakaway cable / secondary coupling device
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Jockey wheel operation
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Coupling head operation
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Wheel bearings
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General chassis, floor and body condition
By highlighting potential issues early, the program helps trailer owners avoid fines, accidents, and costly repairs, while promoting safer roads for all.
The NTTA encourages all trailer owners to take advantage of this free service and ensure their equipment is roadworthy. Participating Trusted Workshop Members are available across the UK, making it easy to get your trailer checked and gain peace of mind. Find out more, and find your local test centre here