Harris Transport & Employment Consultants Ltd

16th December 2008

VOSA voices concern over tachograph 'scam'

VOSA (Vehicle and Operator Services Agency) Customer Director Kevin Rooney has warned drivers and operators of the dangers and risks associated with interfering with digital tachographs.

He has spoken out after reports of a “scam”, where a magnet is placed near a vehicle’s gearbox, have appeared in the trade press.

“Tired drivers cause accidents and kill people” warned Rooney. I am concerned about the recent coverage surrounding the use of magnets to interfere with digital tachographs. The real issue here is road safety. I think we are all aware of the devastation that can be caused when a tired driver falls asleep at the wheel. That is why the Drivers’ Hours Regulations are in place.”

“I would also like to clarify the fact that using a magnet is falsifying a record and carries with it a maximum penalty of £5,000 and 2 years imprisonment, and likely subsequent loss of vocational entitlement when the driver comes in front of the Traffic Commissioner.”

“Depending on how the false record is then used, there may well be further offences under the Counterfeiting & Forgery Act which carry larger penalties for both driver and operator. And where we find a magnet being used, we take the view that the driver has no reliable evidence of having taken any rest periods and apply an immediate 45-hour prohibition.”

VOSA staff have been advised to look for signs of interference with tachograph equipment during checks.

For all drivers hours enquiries, our Enquiry Unit can be contacted on 0300 123 9000. You can also order our Drivers’ hours DVD and guide from our website at www.vosa.gov.uk

For media enquiries about VOSA, please contact: Luke Bigwood on 0117 954 3208 or Zita Easton on 0117 954 2561. You can also e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it