EBPMS: best practice for operators [Updated]

The new guide to maintaining roadworthiness had been released. This includes the requirements for Laden Roller Brake Tests, which will give operators more accurate representations of their vehicle performance.

Workshops are expecting an increase in demand, and as such may wish to have further people trained on use of the Brake Tester Equipment. We at the RHA can help with our Brake Testing Accreditation (Roller Road Brake Testing Accreditation). The expectation of Laden Roller Brake Tests has made many operators look for suitable alternatives – like Electronic Brake Performance Monitoring Systems (EBPMS).

The EBPMS system is not a simple band aid solution to ease administrative burden for operators, however. It requires additional work in relation to parking brake performance in order to ensure compliant use of the vehicles and maximise safety.

EBPMS is a system that monitors and records a trailer’s braking performance during everyday use. It collects data during every use of the brakes and analyses the data over time to produce a performance report.

EBPMS parking brake performance should be monitored using the following steps:

1. The EBPMS system must work correctly and have sufficient data to assess the brake performance.

2. If EBPMS data collected has to show that the brakes are working to spec.

3. ‘Tug tests’ (coupling a trailer to a vehicle and gently pulling away) must be completed and documented as part of the safety inspection, or in the 14 days prior to the safety inspection.

4. Thoroughly review driver defect reporting for any issues

5. Ensure all park brake components are checked and confirmed to be working correctly on each inspection

If any part of the parking brake performance is deemed unsatisfactory further tests must be conducted. The physical and electronic checks must be carried out by a competent person.

It also must be understood by operators that conducting an EBPMS test is not a replacement for the statutory MOT brake tests. This is to best ensure safety on roads and staff.

You can see more on this in the guide to maintaining road worthiness.

Original article from 31/01/2025 can be found here: EBPMS: best practice for operators