New Abnormal Load Escort Vehicle

Keith Rhodes Machinery Installations Ltd has recently upgraded one of their abnormal load escort vehicles. They are now the proud owners and drivers of this fantastic Volkswagen Crafter.  Its strength, reliability, and intelligence, make it a van that cannot be beaten.  It is more economical and greener than before, with high-quality and high performance –  a real asset to our business.

An escort vehicle is a crucial aspect of any abnormal load project. Not only do they maintain continual contact with the driver advising of their current driving situation ensuring that their route is safe and clear; but they also warn other road users of the presence of an abnormal load, keeping all road users and pedestrians safe from harm or injury. They can raise the alarm if necessary in an emergency and ensure that the load is never left unattended.  At Keith Rhodes Machinery Installations Ltd, we are proud to help keep the roads safe and our VW Crafter will ensure that all abnormal loads requiring an escort, will be visible allowing the safe transportation of the load and all persons involved. Some abnormal loads, over 2.9m wide require an additional escort vehicle and all abnormal loads need additional paperwork, including permits.  These are essential in ensuring that the load travels safely and promptly along the route and that all safety precautions are followed.  

At Keith Rhodes Machinery, we are very keen to support local businesses. We used Gloucester-based Hanman SPLiT Ltd to help with our company livery, alongside BP Rolls, a painting company based in Newport.  Our VW Crafter has been transformed from a simple black van to a striking blue, white, and yellow Keith Rhodes fleet vehicle with our classic branding. Initially, BP Rolls re-sprayed the van in our branded colours, then Hanman SPLiT Ltd added a full round-the-body Chapter8 Chevron kit alongside our distinctive company branding.  They did a great job and we are extremely pleased with the final result.

Our in-house workshop team, led by Simon, will continue to maintain the vehicle and keep it in tip-top condition for both its purpose and the roads.

The new escort van has already proven to be an asset to the company and completed some abnormal load jobs, including a trip to France. It has recently been used to escort a wide load from Bodmin to Birmingham on the Volvo Draw-Bar outfit.

We look forward to using the new Escort vehicle in any future jobs, perhaps you have already spotted us out and about on the roads!

Remember to tag us in your photos #KeithRhodesMachineryInstallationsLtd #KeithRhodesMachinery #KeithRhodesSpotter

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP?

While out on the roads, there are many things that we can all do to keep us freely and safely moving around the transport network.  Some general tips when you observe an active escort vehicle with a wide/heavy/tall/long abnormal load.

• Please be patient and approach with caution. Allow the convoy to proceed along its route.  You may need to stop your vehicle entirely and wait for the convoy to pass.
• When safe and appropriate, pass slowly with caution. Do not pull in between the escort and the abnormal load vehicle.  
• Large vehicles may need extra road space to turn or to deal with a hazard that you are not able to see. If you are following a large vehicle, such as an articulated lorry, be aware that the driver may not be able to see you in the mirrors. Be prepared to stop and wait if it needs room or time to turn.