4.1 Introduction

• The analogue tachograph is the older chart-based record-keeping system.
• New in-scope vehicles have used digital tachographs since 1 May 2006, but analogue instruments remain in older vehicles.

4.2 Analogue Tachograph – Key Points

• Externally it includes a speedometer in mph and km/h, an odometer recording kilometres and an electric clock.
• Internally it records distance travelled, vehicle speed, driving time, other work, break/rest and opening of the tachograph head.
• Driving is recorded automatically when the vehicle moves.
• Activity controls record POA, other work and break/rest.

4.3 Tachograph Charts

• The centre hole must fit the tachograph's centre boss; charts are not necessarily interchangeable between instruments.
• The chart's speed rating must match the tachograph's speed rating.
• The activity trace uses different line thicknesses: thickest = driving, next = other work, next = POA, thinnest = break/rest.
• The distance trace records distance; each upward/downward stroke represents 5 km, so a completed 'V' represents 10 km.
• The speed trace records speed in km/h.
• The chart continues recording while the vehicle is stationary because the clock mechanism continues to rotate.
• The tachograph head being opened is indicated on the chart.

4.3.1 Double-manned analogue tachographs

• The tachograph must accommodate charts for both crew members.
• The driver's chart is positioned to record activity, speed and distance.
• The non-driving driver's chart records activity only.
• Charts must be placed in the correct positions so the driver's required speed and distance information is recorded.

4.4 Centre Field Details

• At the beginning of each working day, enter surname and forename.
• Enter the place where work began.
• Enter the date on which work began.
• Enter the vehicle registration number.
• Enter the opening odometer reading.
• At the end of the day, enter the place where work finished.
• Enter the finishing date.
• Enter the closing odometer reading.
• Any vehicle changes during the working day should also be recorded.

4.5 Operator Responsibilities – Analogue Tachographs

• Ensure tachographs are calibrated, inspected and recalibrated as required.
• Supply sufficient type-approved charts and printer rolls.
• Train and instruct drivers in drivers' hours and correct tachograph use.
• Schedule work so that drivers' hours rules can be met.
• Keep required compliance documents, including evidence relating to driver return arrangements where applicable.
• Use a comprehensive system for issuing, checking and recording charts.
• Records of checks, irregularities and corrective actions should be maintained.
• Corrective action can include written infringement notices, remedial training and disciplinary action.
• EU tachograph records must be kept in good condition for at least 1 year; Working Time records may require 2 years.
• Completed charts should be returned by drivers within 42 days.

4.6 Checking and Controlling Charts

• The regulations do not specifically require every chart to be serial-numbered or every chart to be checked, but operators remain responsible for legal operation.
• Operators may check every chart or use a sampling system.
• Whatever system is used, records of checks, infringements and action taken must be retained.
• The operator should be able to demonstrate effective monitoring and corrective action.

4.7 Driver Responsibilities – Analogue Tachographs

• Use a tachograph record sheet every day when driving an in-scope vehicle.
• Do not withdraw the record sheet before the end of the daily working period unless authorised.
• Complete centre-field details at the beginning and end of duty.
• Record changes of vehicle during the working day.
• Use activity switches correctly to record work, POA and rest.
• Keep completed tachograph records for the current day and preceding 28 calendar days.
• Produce records when requested by an authorised inspecting officer.
• Ensure the tachograph clock is accurate and agrees with official time.
• On non-driving days during a week in which in-scope driving occurs, produce manual records of activities for the preceding 28 days.
• Return completed charts to the employer within 42 days.

4.8 Tachograph Failure

• If a tachograph breaks down, it must be repaired by a DfT-approved tachograph centre as soon as possible.
• If it fails during a journey, the driver must keep manual records of activities.
• Manual records can be made on the front of the chart or on the manual grids on the reverse.
• If the vehicle cannot return to base within one week of the breakdown/defect, repair must be carried out en route.
• Any partly recorded chart must be kept with the replacement chart or temporary record so the complete working day can be reconstructed.
• The same approach applies if a chart becomes damaged.

4.9 Installation, Calibration and Sealing

• Installation and repair may only be carried out by DfT-approved fitters/workshops.
• After installation, calibration checks the accuracy of speed and distance recording.
• The installation is sealed and an installation plaque is fitted with relevant details.
• Analogue tachographs must be inspected every 2 years.
• Analogue tachographs must be recalibrated every 6 years or whenever work requires the seals to be broken.
• Seals must remain intact; operators and drivers share responsibility for ensuring this.
• Accuracy requirements stated in the material: speed within ±6 km/h; distance within ±4%; time within ±2 minutes per day or ±10 minutes per 7 days.

4.10 Misuse of the Tachograph

• Interfering with the tachograph to disguise speed, work or rest is an offence.
• Power interruptions on electronic tachographs can leave a vertical line in the speed recording area, indicating that further investigation is required.
• Drivers who falsify records and operators who cause or permit falsification risk serious penalties.
• Never alter, damage or interfere with tachograph equipment or records.