Janos:
… Lots of companies using sub-contractors allow you to use their DGSA after an audit.
Yes Janos, that’s true but it’s not necessarily best practice.
I say this since a company employed DGSA should spot a conflict of interests because, in my experience, the DGSA’s boss still wants the job done, even if things aren’t quite right.
This is especially true of many container companies in relation to load paperwork, which seems to be the current flavour of the month for the Police/DVSA.
If the DGSA is independent of the company, and is retained directly by the haulier, then this issue doesn’t arise.
Ideally, each haulier should have their own documented ‘deal’ with a DGSA, who will give them independent advice.
For a DGSA ‘deal’ to be valid, the haulier should receive an annual report from a DGSA and retain each report for five years. (ADR 1.8.3.3 third indent)
There should also be evidence of a contract (not needed to be carried on the vehicle) between a haulier and a DGSA if asked for by enforcement authorities.