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Impact Protection Vehicle (IPV) Inspection and Testing on National Highways Toolbox Talk: Safeguarding Roadworkers with Reliable Protection
The Impact Protection Vehicle (IPV) Inspection and Testing on National Highways Toolbox Talk provides essential guidance on the inspection, testing, and maintenance of Impact Protection Vehicles (IPVs) used in highways and traffic management operations. Developed in line with Raising the Bar 38 (RTB38), this document follows UK safety legislation, including the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER), the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, and HSE guidance on workplace transport safety. It supports businesses in maintaining IPV functionality, ensuring reliable protection for roadworkers, and complying with UK safety standards.
Impact Protection Vehicles (IPVs) play a critical role in safeguarding roadworkers during temporary traffic management activities, particularly when working in live traffic environments. These vehicles are designed to absorb the impact of an errant vehicle, protecting workers, plant, and equipment from collisions. However, improper maintenance or incomplete testing can compromise their effectiveness. This toolbox talk covers the key aspects of IPV inspection and testing, including:
The document explains the legal and operational responsibilities of IPV operators, including documenting inspection findings and reporting defects immediately. Workers are reminded that IPVs must undergo regular maintenance in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and National Highways requirements. The correct calibration of attenuator systems and safety devices is essential to maximise protection in the event of an impact.
In line with Raising the Bar 38, the toolbox talk highlights the importance of IPV operator training, particularly in relation to vehicle positioning, safe deployment of the attenuator system, and communication protocols with traffic management teams. It also stresses the role of site supervisors in verifying IPV readiness before work zones are established.
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Useful Resources and Links
Traffic Signs Manual – Chapter 8: Traffic Safety Measures and Signs for Road Works and Temporary Situations:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/traffic-signs-manual
Safety at Street Works and Road Works (The Red Book):
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/safety-at-street-works-and-road-works
HSE Guidance on Workplace Transport Safety:
https://www.hse.gov.uk/workplacetransport/index.htm
