MAINTENANCE PROVISION RATING SCHEME LAUNCHES TODAY AND IS SET TO REVOLUTIONISE WORKSHOP STANDARDS

“The Maintenance Provision Rating Scheme marks a significant milestone for our industry. For too long, there has been a lack of clarity around workshop standards and the MPRS will change that. It addresses the long-standing lack of clarity around workshop standards by introducing a clear, practical framework that meets the real needs of modern maintenance – for both operators and providers” said Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) commenting on the launch. 

The Maintenance Provision Rating Scheme* (MPRS) rolls out officially to the wider industry today as regulators and industry trade bodies join forces to elevate standards in workshops and maintenance facilities.

The scheme, which originated from the industry’s call to reduce prohibition rates and foster more transparency for operators, is the product of a collaborative effort between eleven organisations. Steered by the Institute of Road Transport Engineers (IRTE), the scheme is brought to the industry by Logistics UK, SMMT, RHA, CPT, DVSA, DfT, Traffic Commissioners, BVRLA and NFDA, with Daimler Truck UK and DAF taking part in the MPRS pilot.

The MPRS rating system is split into five distinct levels each indicating the breadth and scale of facilities and workforce.

While a ‘Qualified’ rating indicates that basic tools, equipment, and staff competencies are in place to meet minimum industry compliance standards, the advanced level, Platinum, is suited for operators at the cutting edge of maintenance technology and practices, ensuring full readiness for future vehicle trends, including electric, hybrid, and hydrogen-powered systems.

The higher the rating, the greater the confidence operators should have in the competences of their workshop and maintenance providers.

Workshops will apply for their rating through the MPRS portal managed by IRTE on behalf of the industry. MPRS assessment is based on a comprehensive audit criterion where participating entities will require to provide evidence to demonstrate their competencies across staff knowledge and facilities which covers workspace, test equipment, workshop tools, torque wrench, inspection facilities, electric/hybrid equipment and PPE. 

While the Qualified and Bronze levels are based on independent assessment of self-declarations, Silver, Gold and Platinum will be audited by approved auditors. 

Robinson added: “NFDA is delighted to be at the Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham for the MPRS launch. NFDA has been involved in the Steering Group for the scheme, in collaboration with other industry stakeholders, and it is great to see the scheme take shape.”