Defect Manager was developed by Jaama as an additional module to its Key2 Vehicle Management system in association with a number of its software users, including Sheffield-based SIG.

The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) recommends that all commercial vehicle operators have a defect reporting system in place and it is a condition of "O" licence compliance.

The technology provides transport and depot managers with an online tick box check list for the completion of a walk-round appraisal of all vehicles as frequently as they wish. Any work that is required can be easily documented and then arrangements made for the vehicle to be booked into a workshop. 

The system then provides companies with a complete online auditable trail of vehicle inspections and work undertaken to ensure compliance with best practice health and safety regulations and meet "O" licence compliance standards.

SIG operates a fleet of 1,050 commercial vehicles of 7.5 tonnes and above, 650 light commercial vehicles and 1,200 company cars and uses Jaama's Key2 system to manage its fleet from its central logistics department in Sheffield. T

SIG UK logistics administration manager Tommy Duncombe said: 'The new system enables both ourselves and branch transport managers to monitor defect reporting on all vehicles.

'Built-in rule sets mean that it is impossible to omit information; data is fully legible and the system provides SIG with a completely transparent audit trail that meets VOSA inspection requirements should we or any of our branches be the subject of a visit from inspectors.'

He estimates that SIG's logistics department is saving up to three days a week in man hours – more than 150 days a year – as a result of not having to input defect reporting information submitted by 430 branch transport managers.

In addition, he said: 'The online system has improved vehicle safety because both centrally and at a branch level we are able to view the progress of fixing any vehicle defects quickly and easily and there is no chance of any data going missing.'

Mr Duncombe added: 'Defect Manager ensures that that SIG fleet of vehicles is safer than ever and meets VOSA compliance requirements.'