It is important that MOT tools remain on the MOT bay; testers should not need to leave the bay in order to find the tools they need. A DVSA officer will want to see that all mandatory MOT tools are present and easily accessible.

Do you find that MOT testers are wasting precious time searching for the tools they need during MOT testing? Do you want to ensure that your workspace is safe and organised at all times?

The solution could be as simple as a humble MOT shadow board.

You’ll be surprised how many workshops don’t have one!

For compliance and the best performance in MOT testing, it’s crucial to have all the necessary tools close by.

The absence of certain tools can cause frustration and unnecessary disruptions in the testing process. As we’ve witnessed all too often, the tester then has to leave the vehicle unattended in the bay whilst they locate the missing tool, a practice that DVSA would not approve of. Therefore, it’s essential to keep all MOT tools in the bay, easily accessible at all times.

One way to accomplish this is by introducing an MOT shadow board.

With an MOT shadow board in place, it is easy for everyone to see if anything is missing. This not only streamlines the testing process but also promotes a safe and well-organized workspace. It may even discourage other technicians from “borrowing” what is obviously MOT equipment!

If you want the best from your VTS and testers, consider implementing an MOT shadow board!

A quick reminder of mandatory MOT tools for your MOT shadow board –

a) a tyre tread depth gauge selected from DVSA’s latest list of acceptable equipment

b) corrosion assessment tool

c) suitable pinch bars, long and short

d) a steel tape measure (min extended length 1.0m)

e) suitable wheel chocks for the class of vehicle to be tested

f) brake pedal application device from the DVSA List of Acceptable Equipment (only mandatory for ATL & OPTL)

g) suitably positioned mirrors or colour camera system for lighting checks (only mandatory for ATL & OPTL)

h) a suitable handheld low voltage inspection lamp.

i) a 13 Pin Trailer Socket Test Tool from the DVSA approved equipment list.

j) A proprietary leak detection spray which meets BS EN 14291:2004.