TIP collaborates with TÜV NORD in Trailer Inspection Professional project
AMSTERDAM, 16 September 2019 - TIP approached TÜV NORD, the industry recognized certification company, to design and administer a trailer inspection certification scheme. A successful pilot of the scheme, ‘TRAILER INSPECTION PROFESSIONAL’ by TÜV NORD, was carried out at TIP Eppertshausen in Germany.
The aim of the project is to create a Europe-wide trailer inspection that will assess a mechanic’s competency to inspect a trailer. It uses a methodical approach to maximize the potential to capture all relevant maintenance defects. A certificate will be achieved once the mechanic has undergone a successful theoretical and practical assessment on three main topics: trailer inspection technique, ability to recognize defects, and knowledge of component wear and tolerance limits. Michael Löw, mechanic at TIP Eppertshausen, says: “I was invited by TIP to take part in the TÜV NORD Trailer Inspection Professional pilot, and I was delighted to be offered this opportunity. I have gained a lot of extra knowledge, and the certificate is a recognition of my abilities.”
TIP can now demonstrate to its customers that they can inspect their trailer fleet to an independent standard and reduce Vehicle Off Road (VOR) time by correctly identifying defects at the inspection event. The ‘TRAILER INSPECTION PROFESSIONAL’ certification will ensure that all TIP technicians understand and are using safe working practices. Additionally, it provides a more defined annual mechanic appraisal and it links into TIP’s mechanic development program. Thorsten Scheffel, Head of Workshops Germany and Austria at TIP, explains: “Our customers will benefit from having our mechanics certified by an external organisation like TÜV NORD. With this certification, which is not only a further training but a proof of quality, we make sure that all workshops are operating with the same standards when it comes to trailer inspection.”
After the pilot at TIP Eppertshausen, a full roll-out is now in progress to the rest of TIP’s workshops in Germany. Next will be France, followed by all other TIP workshops in Europe.
TÜV NORD intends to open this scheme to the entire European trailer industry. Andreas Köhl, Truck Manager at TÜV NORD Mobility, says: "I am very pleased that we have successfully completed this pilot with TIP. The excellent result is a milestone towards our goal of raising the testing standards throughout Europe, and giving trailer mechanics an individual and industry-recognized inspection certification. This benefits the entire industry and contributes to road safety".
About TIP Trailer Services
TIP Trailer Services is one of Europe and Canada’s leading equipment service providers. We specialize in trailer leasing, rental, maintenance and repair, as well as other value-added services, and provide these to transportation and logistics customers across Europe and Canada. Headquartered in Amsterdam, we service our customers from 102 locations spread over 17 countries in Europe and Canada.
About TÜV NORD
TÜV NORD is a global technical service provider that was founded 150 years ago. Its independent engineers and IT security professionals provide solutions for safety and security, efficiency and quality. Specialists with high levels of engineering expertise test vehicles, machinery, equipment and products. With more than 13,500 employees, TÜV NORD offers a wide range of innovative testing, inspection, certification and training services.
