Tachograph

The tachograph, often called the 'spy in the cab', is a device that records driving and rest times for professional drivers of commercial vehicles. Its primary purpose is to enforce social regulations (like EC Regulation 561/2006) designed to ensure driver safety, prevent fatigue, and guarantee fair competition within the transport industry.

The two types of device

There are two main types:

1. Analogue Tachograph: The older system, which records data by cutting lines onto a circular paper chart (a 'tacho disc'). Each disc holds 24 hours of data.
2. Digital Tachograph: The modern standard, mandatory in new vehicles since 2006. It records data digitally onto its internal memory and onto a personal 'driver card' inserted by the driver.

What it records

The device records different statuses: 'driving' (when the vehicle is moving), 'other work' (like loading/unloading), 'availability' (e.g., waiting), and 'rest/break'. This data must be regularly downloaded and stored by the company and can be inspected by authorities during a roadside check. Failure to comply with tachograph rules can lead to severe fines.