Although we at KVF have all locked down and temporarily stopped visiting customer sites until the government lift the restrictions, we have been quite busy.
We have essential workers, such as vehicle fleet management companies who service and repair commercial vehicles at supermarket distribution centres across the UK, commercial vehicle body repairers who keep supermarket delivery vans on the road and have been working hard to ensure the demand for new vehicles with fresh liveries are ready.
Many of our body shop customers have been operational, helping repair key worker vehicles and manage Royal Mail fleets. One of those customers, Fairlight Coachworks in Peacehaven near Brighton, carried out an online audit, using the Canopy Safety system and we walked through the workplace, using a video call to check certain areas. At times like these, we need to embrace technology. If anyone would like more information on online audits, please call.
Also, furloughed staff can complete e-learning, so many are taking advantage of Intuity Training and getting their team’s ready for when they return to work.
I have been speaking to colleagues in the industry and many managers are taking advantage of the reduced workflow, to catch up on administrative tasks that would normally get pushed to one side. Keeping on top of manufacturer audits, BS10125, calibrations and booking in equipment maintenance.
Right at the start of the lockdown, I got in touch with the HSE to ask them about statutory (insurance) inspections on lifting equipment, pressure vessels/air receivers (compressors) and local exhaust ventilation (LEV). They stated categorically that these must be kept up to date. So, I would check the last time you had an inspection and if it is due in the next month or two, get it booked now! Many motor industry businesses will wait until after the lockdown, remember, if you have an incident involving a lift, for example, and it results in a serious injury or fatality, you will be facing legal prosecution from the HSE.
We are still uncertain as to when the government will allow us to slowly return to a relaxation of the restrictions imposed as a result of the coronavirus. All we can do is make sure our teams, if working, are safe and we will need to start thinking about social distancing and hygiene.
Luckily, we have been thinking about this and have a risk assessment template. If you want access to this, request it at info@kvf-consultants.co.uk
Any other help you need, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
Looking forward to when we do start to return to work, as soon as we get the heads up, I am going to get a pre-start checklist. This will include simple things like draining and refilling coffee machines in reception areas and showrooms to checking workshop and body shop equipment prior to opening the doors.
Stay safe, stay positive and please remember, KVF are here for you during these troubling times, every step of the way. All you need to do is ask!
Thank you for all your support.
The KVF Team & Lee Kennedy – Managing Director