TÜV NORD - also promoting traffic safety in the Czech Republic

For 10 years now, TÜV NORD has operated test stations for mandatory periodic inspection of trucks and cars in the Czech Republic.  But there is something special: in Prague, a training centre is also attached to the TÜV STATION, to drive forward know-how transfer. Another vital element in the area of traffic safety which is now attracting more attention is correct loading and load securing. TÜV NORD Czech takes an active role here with an interesting product portfolio which includes training for companies who have already recognised the importance of safe loads.

As well as the TÜV-STATION in Prague, there are two further stations near to Karlovy Vary (Karlsbad), the traditional spa town on the Teplá and Eger rivers. The quality of the vehicle inspections is certainly comparable with their German equivalent. The result: traffic safety on the roads of the Czech Republic has improved considerably since the introduction of periodic inspections based on the German model. However, here vehicles have to visit the TÜV for the first time after four years and then every two years. The structure (not the appearance) of the inspection stickers is based on the German original.

The TÜV STATIONS are easy to find on the Internet, and currently an appointment system is being developed in order to avoid unnecessary waiting times. Altogether, TÜV NORD Czech is going for growth, not only in terms of the number of vehicles inspected, but also with regard to the range of services that are offered directly to customers at the stations. Added to these are services for vehicle dealerships and workshops and also for vehicle manufacturers. For example, dealership audits are performed for Skoda throughout the country.

There is also potential for growth in the area of load securing. According to TÜV experts, this aspect of traffic safety is not yet considered consistently enough, although current legislation does provide the necessary basis. The Head of Business Development Europe at TÜV NORD, Ingo Albes, sees both long- and short-term developments here. “As was initially the case in Germany, a certain run-up time will be needed until all clients clearly see the advantages and usefulness of the “load securing” service, for example. In the short term, TÜV NORD Czech is offering training courses for interested organisations, thereby promoting the long-term objective of creating acceptance for this important aspect of road safety.”