Posted By Karen Todd
Hello Rich,
No, as far as I can see, it isn't a requirement if you're NOT carrying dangerous goods. Extract below from The Transport Manager's & Operator's Handbook 2004 by David Lowe which relates to the carriage of dangerous goods only:
"Emergency Provisions
Vehicles carrying dangerous goods must be equipped so that the driver can take emergency measures and, where toxic gases are carried, must carry respiratory equipment to enable the crew to escape safely.
In accident or emergency situations drivers must comply with the emergency information given to them. Where an incident cannot be immediately controlled the emergency services must be notified by the quickest practical means.
Vehicles must carry:
- at least one portable fire extinguisher with a minimum capacity of 2kg of dry powder (or other extinguishant with an equivalent test fire rating of at least 5A and 34B - defined in British Standard BSEN 3-1:1996), suitable for fighting a fire in the engine (unless the vehicle has an automatic extinguisher system) or cab, and not likely to aggravate a fire in the load. N.B. Such an extinguisher is not required on a detached trailer.
- at least one portable fire extinguisher with a minimum capacity of 6kg of dry powder (or other extinguishant with an equivalent test fire rating of at least 21A and 183B - defined as above)*, suitable for fighting a tyre or brake fire, or a fire in the load, and not likely to aggravate a fire in the engine or cab. *N.B. Where the vehicle has a gross weight under 3.5 tonnes, a 2kg dry powder extinguisher (or other suitable extinguishant with a test fire rating of at least 5A and 34B) will suffice.
A fire extinguisher is not needed where only infectious substances are carried.
Portable fire extinguishers must not be liable to release toxic gases into the driver's cab, or under the heat of a fire. They must be marked in compliance with a recognized standard; fitted with a seal verifying they have not been used; and, where manufactured after 31 December 1996, be inscribed with the date for their next inspection - it is an offence to carry an extinguisher with an overdue inspection date".
Although you didn't ask this, a first aid kit is a very good idea as the previous respondant has said, and this is what the book has to say about it:
"An employer does not need to make first aid provisions for employees working away from his establishment. However, where the work involves travelling for long distances in remote areas, from which access to NHS A&E facilities may be difficult, or where employees are using potentially dangerous tools or machinery, small travelling first aid kits should be provided".
I know my hubby has used his first aid kit a lot (he is Mr. Bump), and there are times even where you are near to a hospital you cannot just drop the trailer and go, e.g. when carrying a high value load.
Regards,
Karen