For professional drivers, the tachograph disc is a crucial tool to record driving times and ensure compliance with legal requirements. However, filling out the tachograph disc correctly can be somewhat confusing for those new to the process. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the essential steps of filling out a tachograph disc accurately.
Step 1: Prepare the Tachograph Disc
Before you start filling out the tachograph disc, ensure you have the following items ready:
- A valid tachograph disc
- A tachograph pen or a fine-tipped non-permanent marker
- Any necessary documents, such as a driver's logbook or a job card
Step 2: Identify Your Information
The tachograph disc has designated sections where you need to enter specific information. Start by clearly writing or printing your:
- Name or driver's identification number
- Date
- Starting time (both hours and minutes)
- Vehicle registration number
Make sure all the information is legible and visible to avoid any potential misunderstandings or violations later on.
Step 3: Record Your Driving Time
As you start driving, you must regularly record your driving time to stay compliant. The tachograph disc is typically divided into segments to represent different time intervals:
- Period 1: This usually covers the time from 00:00 to 04:59
- Period 2: This typically covers the time from 05:00 to 09:59
- Period 3: This usually covers the time from 10:00 to 14:59
- Period 4: This typically covers the time from 15:00 to 20:59
- Period 5: This usually covers the time from 21:00 to 24:00
Always ensure you record your driving time on the correct segment and that it aligns with the corresponding time interval. Use the tachograph pen or fine-tipped non-permanent marker to fill in the relevant details accurately.
Step 4: Add Breaks and Rest Periods
In addition to recording driving time, it is crucial to log your mandatory breaks and rest periods to comply with regulations. Depending on your driving schedule, you may have different rules for breaks and rest periods, such as:
- 45-minute breaks after 4.5 hours of driving time
- 11-hour daily rest periods
- 24-hour weekly rest periods
When taking a break or a rest period, ensure you fill in the appropriate section on the tachograph disc to reflect the start and end times accurately.
Step 5: Maintain Accuracy and Legibility
Throughout the process of filling out the tachograph disc, it is essential to prioritize accuracy and legibility. Remember to:
- Use a reliable and suitable writing tool (e.g., tachograph pen or fine-tipped non-permanent marker)
- Avoid any unnecessary marks or notes on the disc
- Clearly separate different information sections
- Regularly check and correct any potential mistakes
By maintaining accuracy and legibility, you can ensure your tachograph disc is in compliance and facilitate easier inspections or audits.
Step 6: Keep a Record of Discs
Once you complete a tachograph disc, it is essential to keep a record of it for the required duration (usually 28 days). You can use a suitable storage solution, such as a folder or an envelope, to store the used discs securely. Remember to label each disc with the corresponding dates for easy reference.
Following this step-by-step guide will assist you in correctly filling out the tachograph disc and help you stay compliant with legal requirements. Always refer to official guidelines and regulations specific to your region or country for further clarity.