Contract hire company MNH Vehicle Contracts has launched a compulsory safety feature checklist which the dealer and driver both have to sign before the driver can use a new car.

Developed in conjunction with driver training firm Fleetcraft, in response to the new HSE Driving at Work guidelines, it aims to make the dealer more accountable for fleet vehicle handovers and drivers more aware of how the car works. It covers the following key areas:

• Head restraints – correct positioning is essential to minimise neck and back injury in the event of a rear impact. Fleetcraft picks Volvo’s Whiplash Protection System as a good design.

• Seat belts – shoulder straps should fit between the neck and shoulder. The lap strap should be positioned across the top of the legs, rather than across the lap.

• Spare tyre and tools – drivers need to know where the spare tyre and jack are stored or, if the car has a space-saver spare tyre, what the safe driving speed is if it needs to be fitted.

• Tyre pressures – these need changing regularly in accordance with the weight of the load being carried. If a vehicle involved in an accident is found to be overloaded, the insurance may be void.

• Fluid levels – check levels of brake fluid, oil and screen wash in between services. Drivers should be shown how to open and secure the car bonnet.