Many MOT centres in the UK have only one tester, whether this is a permanent situation or just temporary. It’s crucial not to overlook DVSA Quality Control rules – they apply no matter how many testers you have.

When you have just one MOT tester, there are approved ways to do Quality Control (QC) checks each month. These methods help ensure that your testing meets safety & quality standards and operates smoothly. Below, we’ll explain each method and how it helps you stay compliant and run your centre effectively.

If you only have a single MOT Tester on-site and are struggling to complete a QC check on them, the next best option is to contact a local MOT station to see if they’re willing to send one of their MOT Testers to you to conduct the QC check. This may be easier if the other garage is in a similar situation as you are there’s a mutual benefit.

If you do go down this route, it’s important to always bear in mind the requirements of who is allowed to complete a QC check.

Another effective approach to QC checking involves hiring a third-party assessor. By engaging a professional company to visit your site and conduct a QC check on your tester, you ensure compliance with DVSA regulations. Some assessors may also provide additional benefits such as site audits, enhancing overall testing standards.

However, it’s important to note that this service usually incurs costs that vary across providers. Some companies may require a full subscription to their services rather than offering standalone QC checks. Therefore, it’s advisable to research different companies thoroughly to find one that aligns with your specific needs and budget constraints.

Another DVSA approved method of QC checking is for the MOT tester to complete a full review of their Test Quality Information (TQI) each month. The TQI data will highlight differences to the National Average failure data and may pinpoint any discrepancies within the testing standards which should lead to further investigation.

If using this method, it is important to keep a good record to show how the TQI was reviewed by the tester along with all notes about what was learnt and how the data was interpreted.

Ensuring compliance with DVSA Quality Control regulations remains essential for MOT centres, even those with only one tester on-site. While the challenge of conducting QC checks without multiple testers is real, there are several accepted methods to address this issue effectively.

Each method discussed in this article serves as a viable option depending on specific operational needs and resources. By adhering to these guidelines, MOT centres can uphold regulatory standards effectively, ensuring both compliance and the delivery of high-quality testing services to the public.