SZNS 007:2011  
 
 ICS 43.020        Edition 1             
 
 
 
 
 
 
SWAZILAND NATIONAL STANDARD 
 
 
 
Testing of motor vehicles for 
roadworthiness  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Published by: Swaziland Standards Authority 
SmithCo Building, 2 nd  Floor, 11 th  Street King Mswati III Avenue West  
P. O. Box 1399, Matsapha, Kingdom of Swaziland  
Telephone: +268 2518 4633, Facsimile: +268 2518 452 6  
Website: www.swasa.co.sz  
E-mail: info@swasa.co.sz   
©Swaziland Standards Authority 2011 
 
  SZNS 007:2011 
 
 
COPYRIGHT NOTICE 
 
This Swaziland Standards Authority (SWASA) document  is a Swaziland National Standard and is copyright-
protected by SWASA. Neither this SWASA document nor  any extract from it may be reproduced, stored in a  
retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by a ny means, electronic, photocopying, recording or ot herwise, 
without prior written permission being secured. 
 
Requests for permission to reproduce should be addr essed to SWASA 
 
The Information Officer 
Swaziland Standards Authority 
P.O. Box 1399, Matsapha 
Tel. + 268 518 4633 
Fax: + 268 518 4526 
E-mail: info@swasa.co.sz   
Website: www.swasa.co.sz  
 
Reproduction may be subject to royalty payments or a licensing agreement. 
Violators may be prosecuted. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
         
 
 
ii           ©SWASA 2011 – All rights reserved   SZNS 007:2011  
 
Table of changes 
 
 
Clause Changed  Date Change  
 
   
 
 
 
NATIONAL FOREWORD 
 
 
This Swaziland National Standard was prepared by Te chnical committee SWASA/TC 26  Electrical and mechanical 
engineering  in accordance with procedures of the Swaziland Sta ndards Authority, in compliance with Annex 3 of 
the WTO/TBT Agreement.  
 
During the preparation of this national standard as sistance was derived from the following documents:K enyan 
standard KS 1515:2000 Code of practice for inspection of road vehicles  and South African standard SANS 
10047:2009, The testing of motor vehicles for roadworthiness.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
        
 
   
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1 Scope 
 
This standard gives requirements for the examinatio n and testing for roadworthiness of vehicles used o n 
public roads . 
 
2 Normative references 
 
The following referenced documents are indispensabl e for the application of this document. For dated 
references, only the edition cited applies. For und ated references, the latest edition of the referenc ed 
document (including any amendments) applies. Inform ation on currently valid national and international  
standards can be obtained from the SWASA Standards Division. 
 
SANS 1046 (SABS 1046), Lights and light-signalling devices installed on motor vehicles and trailers.  
 
SANS 1051-1,  Braking – Part 1: General. 
 
SANS 1051-2,  Braking – Part 2: Response time of braking devices  on vehicles fitted with compressed-air 
braking devices. 
 
SANS 1051-3,  Braking – Part 3: Energy sources and reservoirs. 
 
SANS 1051-4,  Braking – Part 4: Spring brakes. 
 
SANS 1051-5,  Braking – Part 5: Parking brakes: Mechanically loc ked brake cylinder (lock actuator) 
type. 
 
SANS 1051-6,  Braking – Part 6: Distribution of braking effort a nd compatibility of vehicles in 
combination. 
 
SANS 1055,  Rear underrun protection devices. 
 
SANS 1080 (SABS 1080), Restraining devices (safety belts) for occupants of adult build in motor 
vehicles.  
 
SANS 1116-2,  Retro-reflective number plates for motor vehicles – Part 2: Metal. 
 
SANS 1116-4,  Retro-reflective number plates for motor vehicles – Part 4: Plastics. 
 
SANS 1207 (SABS 1207), Braking. 
 
 
 
 
 
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SZNS 007:2011  
 
SANS 1376-1, Lights for motor vehicles – Part 1: In candescent lamps. 
 
SANS 1376-2, Lights for motor vehicles – Part 2: He adlights. 
 
SANS 1376-3,  Lights for motor vehicles – Part 3: Secondary ligh ts. 
 
SANS 1447-1,  Braking (motor and towed vehicles, designed for lo w speed or for use off public roads) – 
Part 1: Low speed vehicles. 
 
SANS 1447-2,  Braking (motor and towed vehicles, designed for lo w speed or for use off public roads) – 
Part 2: Low speed trailers. 
 
SANS 1496,  Wheel flaps fitted to motor vehicles. 
 
SANS 1550-1,  Motor vehicle tyres and rims – Dimensions and load s – Part 1: General. 
 
SANS 1550-2,  Motor vehicle tyres and rims – Dimensions and load s – Part 2: Passenger car tyres. 
 
SANS 1550-3,  Motor vehicle tyres and rims – Dimensions and load s – Part 3: Commercial vehicle tyres. 
 
SANS 1550-6,  Motor vehicle tyres and rims – Dimensions and load s – Part 6: Agricultural vehicle tyres. 
 
SANS 10013-1,  The determination of performance (at net power) of  internal combustion engines – 
Part 1: Road vehicle internal combustion engines at  sea level. 
 
SANS 10013-2,  The determination of performance (at net power) of  internal combustion engines – 
Part 2: Compression ignition engines at altitude. 
 
SANS 10013-3,  The determination of performance (at net power) of  internal combustion engines – 
Part 3: Agricultural vehicle internal combustion en gines at sea level. 
 
SANS 10168 (SABS 0168), The installation of restrai ning devices (safety belts) in motor vehicles. 
 
SANS 10216,  Evaluation of vehicle test stations. 
 
SANS 20013/ECE R13, Uniform provisions concerning t he approval of vehicles of categories M, N and 
O with regard to braking.  
 
SANS 20036/ECE R36, Uniform provisions concerning t he approval of large passenger vehicles with 
regard to their general construction.  
 
SANS 20043/ECE R43, Uniform provisions concerning t he approval of safety glazing materials and their 
installation on vehicles.  
 
SANS 20052/ECE R52, Uniform provisions concerning t he approval of M 2 and M 3 small capacity 
vehicles with regard to their general construction.  
 
SANS 20114/ECE R104, Uniform provisions concerning the approval of retro-reflective markings for 
vehicles of category M, N and O.  
 
SANS 20117/ECE R107,  Uniform provisions concerning the approval of cate gory M2 or M3 vehicles 
with regard to their general construction. 
 
 
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3 Definitions 
 
For the purposes of this document, the following de finitions apply. 
 
3.1 
acceptable 
in relation to equipment used, acceptable to the ap pointed inspectorate authority 
 
3.2 
bus 
motor vehicle designed or adapted solely for the co nveyance of more than 30 persons, including the 
driver but does not exceed 22 metres in length 
 
3.3 
bus-train 
motor vehicle designed or adapted for the conveyanc e of more than 30 persons, including the driver and  
is more than 22 metres long 
 
3.4 
examiner 
a person who assesses/examines vehicles appointed a s such under the Road Traffic Act  
 
3.5 
excessive 
excessive in the opinion of the examiner, taking du e cognizance of the manufacturer's specifications, 
where available, and also of the specifications con tained in the national road traffic regulations 
3.6 
heavy vehicle 
including a goods vehicle or a bus of gross vehicle  mass exceeding 3 500 kg, or any other vehicle of t are 
mass exceeding 3 500 kg 
3.7 
inspectorate  
any person who have been appointed as such to carry  out an inspection and to perfom such other 
functions as the Minister may dertemine 
 
3.8 
Importation 
any motor vehicle sourced from outside Swaziland 
 
3.9 
midibus 
a motor vehicle designed or adapted solely or princ ipally for the conveyance of more than (17), but no t 
more than (30) persons, including the driver 
 
3.10 
minibus 
motor vehicle designed or adapted solely or princip ally for the conveyance of more than nine but not 
more than 16 persons, including the driver 
 
 
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SZNS 007:2011 
3.11 
motor cycle 
motor vehicle that has two wheels, including any su ch vehicle that has a side car attached 
3.12 
motor quadrucycle 
motor vehicle, other than a tractor, that has four wheels and that is designed to be driven using the type of 
controls usually fitted to a motor cycle 
3.13 
motor tricycle 
a motor vehicle, other than a motor cycle with a si de-car or tractor, which has three wheels and which  is 
designed to be driven by the type of controls usual ly fitted to a motor cycle 
3.14 
Registrar  
a person appointed Registrar of Road Traffic 
3.15 
rear underrun protection device 
structure that is designed to prevent a vehicle fro m riding under the motor vehicle to which the struc ture 
is fitted 
3.16 
roadworthy 
descriptive of a vehicle that complies with the rel evant provisions of the relevant national legislati on and 
this standard, and that is otherwise in a fit condi tion to be operated on a public road 
3.17 
school bus 
bus or minibus owned by or contracted to or on beha lf of a school and used principally for the 
conveyance of school children and other persons ass ociated with the school 
 
4 Testing procedure 
 
4.1 General 
The criteria for roadworthiness given in this stand ard are intended to cover all the relevant requirem ents 
laid down by the relevant national legislation. It is the duty of the examiner of vehicles to keep 
himself/herself informed of any future amendments t o the said legislation and to examine vehicles for 
compliance with such legislation and, if necessary,  to extend the inspection record accordingly. 
 
The inspection criteria are limited to safety and i dentification. The issue of a certification of 
roadworthiness or roadworthy certificate cannot in any way be regarded as a guarantee of the soundness  
of construction or mechanical condition of the vehi cle. 
 
All road vehicles shall be subjected to inspection carried out by an authorized government body before  
importation. All road vehicles shall be subjected t o inspection carried out by the Swazi Government 
Vehicle Inspection Centre or any other authorized a nd accredited vehicle inspection agent before 
registration. 
Imported road vehicles shall be accompanied by a ce rtificate of road worthiness from the exporting 
country. 
Road vehicles shall be inspected in inspection cent res approved by relevant authority. 
Equipment used in inspection centres shall be certi fied by a relevant authority.   8                                           ©SWASA 20 11 – All rights reserved 
  
SZNS 007:2011 
Left hand drive vehicles shall not be accepted for registration, unless they are for special purposes.  
All commercial vehicles which are more than 12 year s, private use vehicles more than nine years and 
public service vehicles more than five years from t he date of manufacture shall not be allowed for 
importation. 
4.2 Facilities 
4.2.1  Testing of vehicles shall be carried out with the use of appropriate equipment and facilities that 
comply with the provisions of SANS 10216. 
4.2.2  In the case of a vehicle that cannot be tested at a vehicle test station because of the vehicle's 
dimensions, configuration or mass or because its sp eed capability is less than 15 km/h (for example 
tractors, and certain roadmarking, earthmoving, exc avation, construction and loading machinery), the 
vehicle may be tested on site. 
This on-site testing has to be by prior arrangement  with the management of the vehicle test station, 
subject to the availability of manpower. 
4.2.3  On completion of the test, a record of the inspect ion shall be kept by the vehicle test station. 
4.2.4  In the case of site testing, in addition to the re quirements of 4.5, the inspection record shall stat e the 
inspection site and any deviation from the technica l procedures laid down in this standard. 
4.2.5  In the case of adapted vehicles for the disabled, exceptions in respect of this standard may be 
allowed, at the discretion of the examiner, in the case of driving controls. The road test may be carr ied out 
by a disabled driver in the company of the examiner  
 
4.3 Cleanliness 
 
The vehicle presented for an examination and test s hall be sufficiently clean so that all parts can be  easily 
identified and examined. Failure to comply with thi s provision may result in the rejection of the vehi cle. 
 
4.4 Identification 
 
4.4.1  The examiner shall satisfy himself/herself that th e vehicle presented for examination is the vehicle 
described in the application for examination. 
 
4.4.2  Identification particulars of a vehicle shall be o btained from the vehicle itself. Documentation and 
the information contained in the office of the Regi strar shall be correlated. 
 
4.4.3  If the engine or chassis/VIN number has been oblit erated, altered, defaced or does not correspond 
with the registration certificate or any other acce ptable document, the examiner may discontinue the 
examination and record on the inspection record tha t a clearance from the national police services wil l be 
required before the examination can be continued. 
 
4.5 Inspection record 
 
4.5.1  The vehicle examiner shall carry out the necessary  inspections and tests to determine whether the 
vehicle has to be rejected or not in terms of claus es 5, 6 or 8 (or a combination of these) and he/she  shall 
record (in duplicate) his/her findings on an inspec tion record. 
4.5.2  In the case of buses and minibuses, the inspection  record shall also include items that are only 
applicable to these vehicles.   
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SZNS 007:2011 
 
4.5.3  If the vehicle does not comply with the relevant i tems in this standard, the examiner shall state in 
the inspection record which items require attention  or correction. 
4.5.4  One copy of the inspection record shall be handed to the owner or person presenting the vehicle for 
inspection and a duplicate copy shall be filed for future reference.  
4.6 Certification of roadworthiness 
 
If, after completing the examination and tests requ ired in terms of this standard, the examiner finds no 
cause for rejection, he/she shall issue, or authori ze the issue of, a roadworthy certificate. 
 
4.7 Circumstances under which a test may be stopped  
 
The examiner may discontinue the test if 
 
a) there is a risk to the safety of the examiner, 
 
b) the vehicle is not sufficiently cleaned for exam ination (see 4.3), 
 
c) the particulars of the vehicle appear to have be en tampered with or do not match the particulars on  the 
records to the extent specified in the procedures i ssued by the relevant national transport authority  (see 
4.4), and 
 
d) the vehicle cannot be started using its normal m eans, for example self-starter or crank handle. 
 
5 Rejection criteria for all vehicles 
 
5.1 General 
 
Vehicles shall be examined and tested in regard to each provision of this standard, as relevant. In th e 
absence of any listed defect, the vehicles shall be  deemed roadworthy; otherwise they shall be rejecte d as 
indicated. All examinations and tests shall be reco rded on inspection records. 
 
The vehicle shall be rejected if the engine or chas sis number has been tampered with. 
 
NOTE 1  The relevant national legislation  provides for ce rtain vehicles, namely industrial, earthmoving and 
agricultural machines, to be excluded from certain provisions of the regulations.  
 
NOTE 2 Special consideration should be given to vehicles t hat were manufactured before 1965, or that, by natu re 
of their design, do not comply with the requirement s of the relevant national legislation  relevant to  number plate 
size, headlamps, rear lamps, stop lamps, direction indicators, windows, rear-view mirrors, safety belt s, brakes, fuel 
tanks, side cars on motor cycles, entrances and exi ts and speedometers. 
 
If, in the opinion of the vehicle examiner, such ve hicles comply with their original design performanc e 
standards in respect of these requirements and are in a safe mechanical condition, they should not be 
rejected. 
 
5.2 Information and registration details 
 
5.2.1 Number plates (if fitted) 
 
In the case of a registered vehicle, reject if 
 
a) the number plates are not secure, or   
 
 
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b) the number plates do not comply with SANS 1116-2  or SANS 1116-4, where applicable, or 
 
c) the number plates are broken, cracked, discolour ed, peeling, wrinkled or blistered to such an exten t that 
their legibility and reflectivity are affected, or if they have any sharp edges, or 
 
d) there is a licence number, licence disc or permi t or anything that is not applicable to the vehicle , or 
 
e) illegal lettering and numbers are used, or 
 
f) not all letters and figures are legible and visi ble. 
 
5.2.2 Obstruction test (number plates) 
 
Stand at position A (see figure 1), which is direct ly in front of the centre of the face of the number  plate. 
Move to position B, which is 20 m away. Line AB is perpendicular to the face of the number plate. Read  
the number plate from position B. Move 5 m to the r ight of position B to position C. Line BC is 
perpendicular to line AB. Read the number plate fro m position C. Return to position B, and move 5 m to  
the left of position B to position D. Line BD is al so perpendicular to line AB. Read the number plate from 
position D. 
 
   Dimentions in metres 
 
   Figure 1- Positions for the obstruction test 
 
  
 
 
 
   
 
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SZNS 007:2011 
 
5.2.3 Information display 
 
NOTE If the vehicle is fitted with an information plate as mentioned in 5.2.4, the provisions of this subcl ause are 
not applicable.  
 
Reject if, in the case of a bus, a minibus or a goo ds vehicle, the following information is not marked  (in 
kilograms), in letters and figures of height at lea st 40 mm that are clearly legible at all times: 
 
a) the tare (T); 
 
b) the permissible maximum vehicle mass (V); and 
 
c) when relevant, the permissible maximum drawing v ehicle mass (D/T). 
 
5.2.4 Information plates ― General 
 
Reject if, in the case of: 
 
– a bus, or a goods vehicle of gross vehicle mass e xceeding 3 500 kg, or 
 
– a minibus, midibus, bus or a goods vehicle of gro ss vehicle mass not exceeding 3 500 kg and first 
registered on or after 1 January 1989, 
 
an information plate or self-adhesive tamper-proof label as specified in the relevant national legisla tion, 
clearly imprinted or stamped with those items liste d below that are relevant (in kilograms or kilowatt s, as 
applicable), is not affixed in a conspicuous and re adily accessible position on a part that is not sub ject to 
replacement or, in the case of a trailer, on the le ft- hand side: 
 
a) the tare (T); 
 
b) the gross vehicle mass (GVM/BVM); 
 
c) the gross axle massload or axle unit massload of  each axle or axle unit (GA/BA or GAU/BAE); 
 
d) in the case of a semi-trailer, the gross kingpin  massload (GKM/BSM); 
 
e) the gross combination mass (GCM/BKM), provided t hat this item does not apply to a semi-trailer; 
 
f) the maximum net engine power at sea level in acc ordance with SANS 10013-1 (P/D); 
 
g) the permissible maximum vehicle mass (V); 
 
h) the permissible axle massload or axle unit massl oad of each axle or axle unit (A or AU/AE); 
 
i) the permissible maximum drawing vehicle mass (D/ T); and 
 
j) in the case of a vehicle that has to comply with  SANS 1051 (all parts), or SANS 1207 or SANS 20013 
and that is fitted with a load-sensing valve, the s etting information; and 
 
k) the vehicle identification number (VIN). 
 
NOTE If any of the information is incorrect, or if modif ications to the vehicle have obviously affected the  tare, the 
information given on the plate may have to be verif ied. 
 
 
                                                                                                                 
 
 
 
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       SZNS 007:2011 
5.2.5 Information plates ― Tractors that operate on a public road 
 
Reject a tractor that operates on a public road if an information plate similar to that described in 5 .2.4 is 
not affixed in a conspicuous and readily accessible  position on a part that is not subject to replacem ent, 
and shows the following: 
a) the maximum net engine power in accordance with SANS 10013 (parts 1, 2 or 3), where applicable; 
b) the gross combination mass (GCM/BKM); and 
c) the permissible maximum drawing vehicle mass (D/ T). 
NOTE For the purpose of 5.2.4 and 5.2.5, annex A gives t he step-by-step procedure for vehicle plating to es tablish 
the permissible loadings and check the information plate for correctness.  
5.3 Smoke emission 
Reject if, 
a) in the case of any type of engine, the exhaust s moke emission is so dense during a road test that 
it would, in the opinion of the examiner, hinder ot her road users, or 
 
b) the engine emits excessive smoke or fumes, or 
 
c) except in the case of slip joints on heavy vehic les where slight leaks are acceptable, the exhaust gas 
leaves the exhaust system by means other than throu gh the silencer or muffling device, or 
 
d) the exhaust pipe or silencer is in such a positi on that oil or other flammable liquid or material c an drip 
or fall onto it, or is not in efficient working ord er, or is so placed and maintained that exhaust gas  or 
smoke leaks into the driving cab or passenger compa rtment of the vehicle, or 
 
e) the exhaust system is within 25 mm of any hydrau lic brake system pipe unless it has been properly 
insulated, or 
 
f) any exhaust gases are discharged onto any fuel c ontainer, fuel hose, spare wheel (if fitted), batte ry or 
any part of the brake system, or 
 
g) the exhaust system is not secure. 
 
NOTE  If there is excessive noise at discretion of an ex aminer, the vehicle should be tested in accordance with 
SANS 10181 or be referred to the nearest law enforc ement authority for testing. 
 
5.4 Road wheels and hubs 
Reject if: 
 
a) the flanges or the tyre-retaining rings are frac tured or cracked, or 
 
b) any stud hole is excessively worn, or 
 
c) any wheel stud, nut or bolt is loose or is missi ng, or 
 
d) the ends of any tyre-retaining ring are butting,  or 
 
e) any wheel is excessively distorted (outside of t he manufacturer's specification), bent or cracked,  or 
 
      
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SZNS 007:2011 
 
 
f) any half-shaft bolt, nut or stud is loose or is missing, or 
 
g) any part shows signs of having been repaired or modified by heating or welding, or 
 
h) any balance weights are not secure, or 
 
i) any interchangeable (quickly detachable) wheels have excessive backlash in their splines, or 
 
j) on visual observation, any road wheel does not r un reasonably true, or 
 
k) when the front wheels are lifted off the ground and rocked top and bottom, a wheel has excessive 
movement measured at the circumference of the tyre,  or 
 
l) spoked wheels have loose, missing or broken spok es, or 
 
m) any wheel rim does not comply with the load and pressure tables of SANS 1550-2, SANS 1550-3 and 
SANS 1550-6, or, in the case of motor cycles/tricyc les/quadrucycles, the manufacturer's specification.  
 
5.5 Size and type of tyres 
 
5.5.1  Reject if: 
 
a) the wheel massloads of the tyres are less than r equired in relation to the maximum permissible axle  or 
axle unit massload (A or AU/AE) and the permissible  maximum vehicle mass (V) of the vehicle, in 
accordance with the load and pressure tables given in SANS 1550 (parts 1, 2 and 3), or 
 
b) one of the tyres of a dual wheel does not make g round contact when the vehicle is unladen on a flat  
surface, or 
 
c) any tyre is of a different size or type (i.e. cr oss-ply or radial-ply) from any other on the same a xle, or 
 
d) in the case of 14-inch minibus wheels, commercia l  tyres of 6.00 × 14LT are not fitted, or 
 
e) in the case of motor cycles/tricycles/quadrucycl es, tyres are clearly marked for off-road use only.  
NOTE Where the information on a tyre is not given in SAN S 1550 (parts 1, 2, 3 and 6), consult with the 
manufacturer of the tyre.  
f) a commercial radial ply (marked with a "C") is n ot used on a 16-seater with a 1 700 kg rear axle "A " 
rating. 
 
g) regrooved tyres are fitted. 
NOTE Regrooved tyres have little tread, often an uneven tread pattern and often with exposed body cords in the 
tread grooves.  
 
5.5.2  A minibus, midibus, or bus operating in terms of a n operating licence issued in accordance with the 
provisions of the relevant national legislation , s hall be fitted with commercial steel radial tyres o r tyres 
specified by the vehicle manufacturer. 
 
NOTE  Some useful information is provided in annex A.  
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
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  SZNS 007:2011 
 
 
Reject if, shown: 
 
a) that the load-carrying capacity of the tyres on an axle is less than the "A" rating for the axle (s ee annex 
A), 
 
b) that the total load-carrying capacities of the v ehicle tyres are less than the permissible maximum 
vehicle mass "V", or 
 
c) that the vehicle capacity is incorrect in relati on to the number of passengers to be carried (take the 
number of people, times 68 kg, to determine "T". Th e result shall not be more than the permissible 
maximum vehicle mass "V"). 
 
5.5.3  When tyres on vehicles that are designed for norma l road use, are marked 
 
a) "not for highway use", or 
 
b) "not for highway use – off road", or have simila r marking, the vehicle shall be rejected 
 
5.6 Condition of tyres 
Reject if: 
a) a regrooved tyre is fitted to a wheel rim, 
 
b) the tyres on dual wheels, when correctly inflate d, make wall contact owing to incorrect wheel fitme nt, 
or 
 
c) a tyre sidewall has a break in the fabric or has  a cut, the length of which (in either case) exceed s 
25 mm or 10% of the section width, whichever is the  greater, and is deep enough to reach the body cord s, 
or 
 
d) a tyre has a lump or bulge apparently caused by separation or partial failure of its structure, or shows 
any lifting of the tread rubber, or 
 
e) the spacing of dual wheels is less than that rec ommended by SANS 1550-3, or, if there is no 
information in SANS 1550-3, the spacing is less tha n that recommended by the tyre manufacturer, or 
 
f) any portion of the ply or cord structure of the tyre is exposed, or 
 
g) when the height of the tread-wear indicators is less than 1 mm deep over the full width of the trea d (or 
in the case of motor cycles/tricycles/quadrucycles of engine capacity not exceeding 50 cc, at least 80 % of 
the full width of the tread), at any position on th e tread or, in the case of a pneumatic tyre that co ntains 
tyre tread depth indicators, if the tread is level with the tyre tread depth indicator, or 
 
NOTE Tiebars (see figure 3) are part of the design of th e tyre. They are much higher than the tread-wear in dicator. 
When the tyre has worn to such an extent that the s urface of the tyre is level with the tiebar, the ty re is still 
roadworthy. 
 
h) a tyre fouls any part of the vehicle under any c onditions, or 
   
 
 
 
©SWASA 2011 – All rights reserved                    15 
SZNS 007:2011 
 
i) a tyre allows the metal part of the wheel to con tact or damage the road surface, or is likely to be  
a danger, or 
 
j) a motor cycle/tricycle/quadrucycle is fitted wit h a retreaded tyre, or 
 
k) the vehicle is fitted with a regrooved tyre, unl ess specified by the manufacturer on the sidewall o f 
the tyre. 
 
NOTE The use of a manufacturer-supplied temporary spare wheel is not considered to be grounds for rejection , 
provided that the spare wheel is used for emergenci es only.  
 
5.7 Bumper bars, protective devices (bull bars), bo nnets, roof carriers and 
similar fittings 
Reject if: 
a) a bumper bar, protective device, bonnet, roof ca rrier or similar fitting is not secure or has sharp  edges 
that could cause injury, or 
b) any lamp, retro-reflector or number plate is obs cured by the bumper bar or protective device, or 
c) in the case of no bumper bar or protective devic e being fitted, there are sharp edges that could ca use 
injury. 
5.8 Wheel flaps  
Reject if:  
a) a trailer with a GVM exceeding 3 500 kg or a bus  or a goods vehicle with a GVM exceeding 
7 500 kg (excluding a chassis, a cab and chassis, a  truck-tractor or a vehicle that is excluded by the  
provisions of SANS 1496 owing to its design) is not  fitted with wheel flaps which are in good conditio n, 
or 
b) the wheel flaps do not comply with SANS 1496. 
5.9 Trailer coupling on drawing vehicle 
 
5.9.1 Drawbar eye or hook 
Reject if: 
a) the drawbar eye or hook or the pin, where approp riate, is not secure, or is excessively distorted o r 
excessively worn, or 
b) the locking or safety devices are not in positio n or are not working correctly. 
 
5.9.2 Fifth wheel coupling 
Reject if 
a) the fifth wheel assembly is not securely fitted to the chassis with the correct grade and number of  
fasteners, or  b) the safety locking device is missing, or is inad equate, damaged or ill-fitting, or 
 
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SZNS 007:2011 
c) any part is missing, broken, cracked, loose or e xcessively worn, or 
d) the wear in the wheel jaw exceeds the limit when  checked using an acceptable vernier gauge or fifth  
wheel jaw gauge. 
5.9.3 Towing bracket, coupling ball and tow bar 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) the towing bracket is loose, badly welded or, in  the opinion of the examiner, incorrectly or not 
securely fitted to the drawing vehicle, or 
 
b) the coupling ball is welded or shows signs of ex cessive wear, or 
 
c) the tow bar is loose, badly welded or, in the op inion of the examiner, incorrectly fitted to the 
drawing vehicle, or 
 
d) any part is cracked, broken or incomplete, or 
 
e) the anchorage points around the tow bar location  are bent or corroded, or 
 
f) when a tow hitch pin is fitted, there is no lock ing facility, or 
 
g) in the case of a bus-train, the operator of the vehicle fails to produce a calibration certificate to certify 
that he/she has separated the two parts of the bus- train and examined the ball coupling and repaired, 
replaced or adjusted it, as necessary. 
 
5.10  Coupling on trailer 
5.10.1 Trailer drawbar 
Reject if 
 
a) the coupling is distorted, fractured or loose, o r 
 
b) the safety devices are not fitted or are not wor king correctly, or 
 
c) there is excessive wear on the drawbar coupling,  bushes or buckles, or 
 
d) the drawbar bolts or mounting bolts are missing or are not of the correct grade, size and number, 
or 
 
e) the drawbar length of any trailer, where such tr ailer has more than one axle, exceeds 2 m: provided  that 
in the case of an underslung coupling, the drawbar may exceed 2 m, provided that the distance between 
the two vehicles does not exceed 2,5 m. 
 
5.10.2 Semi-trailer kingpin 
 
5.10.2.1  Reject if: 
a) the wear in the kingpin exceeds the limit when t he kingpin is checked by using an acceptable 
kingpin and fifth wheel gauge, or 
b) the attachment of the kingpin is not secure, or  c) any part is excessively worn, or 
d) any mounting bolts are missing or are not of the  correct grade, number and size. 
 
©SWASA 2011 – All rights reserved                    17 
SZNS 007:2011  
 
NOTE  It is the duty of the driver to clean the surfaces of the kingpin or fifth wheel for inspection.  
 
The maximum wear allowed on a kingpin is: 
a) 3 mm on a 89 mm diameter pin (2 mm on the 114 mm  top part); and 
b) 1,8 mm on a 50,8 mm diameter pin (2 mm on the 73  mm top part). 
NOTE An example of go and no-go gauges is given in figur e 2.  
 
 
5.10.2.2 Coupling socket 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) the locking mechanism does not work correctly, o r 
 
b) the safety locking devices are missing or do not  work correctly, or 
 
c) the socket has been welded, or 
 
d) there is excessive wear on the coupling or pins,  or 
 
e) any part is cracked, broken or incomplete. 
 
5.11 Trailer landing legs 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) the landing legs do not operate correctly, or 
 
b) the landing legs are not securely fixed to the c hassis, or 
 
c) any of the mounting bolts or cross-bearing membe rs is damaged, cracked or missing. 
 
5.12 Rear underrun protection devices 
  Except for the vehicles excluded by SANS 1055 and l isted in the relevant national legislation, reject if, 
irrespective of its first registration date, a good s vehicle with the gross vehicle mass of which exce eds 12 
000 kg or a trailer of which the gross vehicle mass  exceeds 3 500 kg, is not fitted with rear underrun  
protection devices that comply with the requirement s given in SANS 1055. 
 
18             ©SWASA 2011 – All rights reserved  
SZNS 007:2011 
5.13 Mudguards 
Reject if a mudguard or other similar fitting: 
a) is not securely fixed or is excessively corroded , or 
b) has a tear or jagged edge that could cause injur y, or 
c) is rubbing on a tyre (in the case of a steering axle, including when the wheels are on full lock). 
 
5.14 Cab mounting 
 
5.14.1  Defects to look for are: 
 
a) corroded sharp edges that can cause injury to pe destrians or cyclists, or damage to other vehicles;  
 
b) corrosion that can significantly affect safety w hen it affects structural parts, for example around  seat 
mounting points, seatbelt mounting points, door hin ges and latches, pedal mounting and bonnet 
mounting, door pillars and floors; and 
 
c) holes in body panels that can cause injury or af fect safety. 
 
Reject if such defects are found. 
 
5.14.2  Reject if: 
a) the cab is not mounted securely to the chassis, or 
b) a retention or safety device on a tilt cab is de fective or excessively worn, or 
c) air pipes, hydraulic pipes or electric cables ar e liable to become trapped or subjected to excessiv e 
stress. 
 
5.15 Load body or side car 
 
5.15.1  Reject if: 
a) the load body is not properly secured to the cha ssis, or 
b) the condition of the load body adversely affects  the safe operation of the vehicle, or 
c) the load body or side car is not capable of secu ring and containing a load, or 
d) the load body or side car is not positioned squa rely on the chassis. 
 
5.15.2  Body rust is not necessarily a cause for rejection  unless there are weaknesses of structural parts, 
vehicle safety is affected, or sharp edges that are  exposed are likely to cause damage to pedestrians.  
 
5.16 Motor cycle/tricycle/quadrucycle fittings 
 
5.16.1 Non-essential projections 
 
Examine the vehicle for non-essential projections, and reject if there is any projection that has been  
caused by broken, damaged or dislodged rear-view mi rror brackets, mudguards, footrests, stands, bolts,  
etc.   
 
 
©SWASA 2011 – All rights reserved                    19 
SZNS 007:2011 
 
5.16.2 Security of fittings 
 
Examine the vehicle for security of all fittings (i ncluding fairings, footrests, pillion seats, centre  stands 
and side stands), and reject if any fitting is not securely and adequately attached to the vehicle. 
 
5.16.3 Footrests 
 
Examine the footrests, and reject if any footrest i s neither fitted with a rubber nor has a non-slip s urface. 
 
5.16.4 Mudguards 
 
If a vehicle that was originally fitted with mudgua rds is not so equipped, reject it unless (when rele vant) 
the body of the vehicle adequately serves the same purpose. 
 
5.16.5 Stands 
 
Check the centre stand (if fitted) and the side sta nd. Reject if either or both are not capable of sup porting 
the vehicle safely. 
 
5.16.6 Chain guards 
 
Reject if a chain guard that was originally fitted to the vehicle is missing. 
 
5.16.7 Sprocket cover 
 
Reject if the sprocket cover is missing. 
 
5.16.8 Self-closing throttle 
 
Reject if the vehicle does not have a self-closing throttle. 
 
5.16.9 Levers 
 
Reject if any hand lever is damaged to the extent t hat its strength or efficiency is diminished. 
 
5.17 Safety belts (restraints) 
 
Examine all safety belts and their anchorages, and reject if: 
 
a) any motor car first registered after 1964 but be fore 1 July 1978 that does not have a safety belt f itted to 
each of the two front outboard seats, or 
 
b) any motor car first registered on or after 1 Jul y 1978, where the roof of that motor car forms an i ntegral 
part of the bodywork, that has no harness belt or t hree-point belt fitted to each of the two front out board 
seats, or 
 
c) any motor car first registered on or after 1 Jul y 1978, where the roof of that motor car does not f orm an 
integral part of the bodywork, that has no safety b elt fitted to each of the two front outboard seats,  or 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
20               ©SWASA 2011 – All rights reserved  
       SZNS 007:2011 
 
d) any motor car or box-type construction vehicle t hat has only two rows of seats, excluding seating 
positions that have seats of the folding (tip-up), rearward facing or sideways facing type, first regi stered 
on or after 1 January 1988, that has no lap belt or  three-point belt fitted to each of the two rear ou tboard 
seats, excluding rebuilt vehicles originally manufa ctured before this date and first registered after this 
date, or 
 
e) any minibus of gross vehicle mass exceeding 2 50 0 kg, 
 
1) that does not have a safety belt fitted for the driver’s seat, or 
 
2) that, if the front seat has seating accommodatio n for other persons, does not have at least one saf ety 
belt fitted, or 
 
f) any minibus, bus or goods vehicle of gross vehic le mass not exceeding 2 500 kg, first registered on  or 
after 1 January 1979, or of gross vehicle mass not exceeding 3 500 kg, first registered on or after 1 
January 1987, 
 
1) that does not have at least a harness belt or th ree-point belt fitted for the driver, and 
 
2) that, if the front seat has seating accommodatio n for other persons, does not have at least one oth er 
harness belt or three-point belt fitted, or 
 
g) any minibus or midibus, first registered after 1  July 2006, operating in terms of an operating lice nce 
issued in accordance with the provisions of the rel evant national legislation unless seatbelts are fit ted for 
the driver and all passengers, or 
 
h) if any device is present that could be responsib le for the introduction of slackness of the safety belt 
tension, or 
 
i) if any safety belt 
 
1) is frayed, split or torn, or 
 
2) has a loose or defective buckle, or 
 
3) is improperly installed, or its anchorages are d amaged or defective to the extent that the effectiv eness 
of the anchorage is reduced, or 
 
4) does not comply with the requirements of SANS 10 80, or 
 
5) does not bear the national or international mark  of approval, except in the case of older seat belt s 
where normal wear and tear has caused the marks to come off, or 
 
j) the belt configuration for passengers at the rea r is not at least a two-point belt (also referred t o as a lap-
type belt). 
 
NOTE Box-type construction vehicles that contain at leas t three rows of seats, including sideways facing se ats, are 
only required to have seat belts fitted to the fron t seats.  
 
5.18 Doors 
Reject if: 
a) a door is jammed or so secured that it cannot be  opened, or 
b) a door will not remain securely closed, or 
   
 
 
 
 
©SWASA 2011 – All rights reserved                    21  
SZNS 007:2011 
 
c) the hinges, catches or pillars of a door are loo se to the extent that the door is not secure when c losed, or 
 
d) except in the case of official vehicles conveyin g prisoners, and security vehicles, a door cannot b e 
opened from both the inside and the outside, or 
 
e) a safety catch is not functioning correctly, or 
 
f) the window winders or the window opening mechani sms (or both) are not in good working order. 
 
5.19 Floor and steps 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) the floor is not secure or is excessively rusted  or broken, or 
 
b) a step is loose, or is excessively rusted or has  a jagged edge that could cause injury, or 
 
c) anything is present that could interfere with th e movements of the pedals. 
 
5.20 Seats 
 
NOTE See also 6.4 and 8.4.  
 
5.20.1  In cases where no weld nuts are fitted, or where o ther types of seat are fitted, provision shall be 
made to make the fitment of the seats of suitable l ength. A typical construction is shown in figure 3.  
 
 
 
 
5.20.2  In cases where additional seats are fitted, simila r following mounting procedures shall be 
followed: 
  a) The backing plate shall 
 
1) be at least 3 mm thick, 
 
22                ©SWASA 2011 – All rights reserved  
       SZNS 007:2011 
 
2) have an area of at least 4 000 mm 2 in contact w ith the mounting surface, 
 
3) have rounded corners (minimum radius 10 mm), and  
 
4) not foul any brake or fuel pipe or electric wire s. 
 
b) There shall be at least four anchorage points pe r seat. 
 
c) The bolts used shall be at least M10 (grade 8.8) . 
 
d) Lock nuts, spring washers or an equivalent form of locking shall be used. 
 
e) The bolts shall engage all the threads of the nu ts. 
 
f) The seats shall not have sharp edges. 
 
g) If the original seats fitted have safety belts, the replacement seats shall also be fitted with saf ety belts. 
 
5.20.3  In the case of vehicles with fibre-glass floors, p oints for seats or safety belts shall have adequate  
reinforcement, i.e. unless the body frame is built,  or the floor reinforced, to withstand the load. 
 
5.20.4  Reject if: 
 
a) the driving seat is in such a condition that it could cause the driver to lose control of the vehic le, or 
 
b) any seat or bunk is not secure or is unsafe, or 
 
c) in the case of a vehicle that complies with the relevant national legislation , the driving seat is  not 
adjustable and has no partition immediately behind it and is not so placed as to afford the driver amp le 
space for controlling the minibus, midibus or bus. 
 
5.21 Mirrors 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) less than 75% of the width of an exterior rear-v iew mirror can be seen when one is standing at the rear 
of the vehicle in line with the appropriate outer e dge of the body, or 
 
b) any mirror or its mounting bracket is loose, or 
 
c) any mirror is so cracked that vision is impaired , or so discoloured that vision is affected, or 
 
d) any mirror has a loose reflective surface, or 
 
e) mirrors are not fitted as required by the releva nt national legislation . 
 
NOTE Since 31 December 1990, rear-view mirrors are requi red to be fitted on the left side and on the right side of 
handlebars of motor cycles/tricycles/quadrucycles. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
©SWASA 2011 – All rights reserved                    23  
SZNS 007:2011 
 
5.22 View to front and sides 
 
Reject if the driver does not have a full and clear  view to the front and sides when he/she is in the driving 
position. 
 
5.23 Windows and windscreen 
 
NOTE See also 6.5 and 8.5.  
 
Reject if: 
 
a) the windscreen is so cracked, clouded or otherwi se defective that the driver's day view or night vi ew is 
affected or obstructed, or 
 
b) the windscreen cracks obscure the driver's view in the control zone. The control zone runs from abo ve 
the steering wheel to just under the sun visor (wit h the sun visor down), and within the driver's 
windscreen wiper sweep area, or 
 
c) windscreen cracks weaken the screen, or 
 
d) the windscreen cracks have sharp edges, or 
 
e) cracks in the window restrict the driver's view in the outside rear-view mirror on the left side, o r 
 
f) the glass is not permanently marked with the tra de name or trademark of the manufacturer, or the tr ade 
name of the glass, or 
 
g) the glass is not clearly identifiable as safety glass, or 
 
h) material other than glass is fitted as a windscr een, window or transparent partition, except that 
1) roof windows, and windows and partitions in side  cars, in buses and in passenger semi- 
trailers may be of ultra-high-impact acrylic or pol ycarbonate plastics materials that are 
marked with the trade name or trademark of the manu facturer or with the trade name of the 
material and with a permanent material identificati on mark, and 
2) flexible windows or partitions that fold away ma y be of plastics material, and 
3) windows in trailers (and in caravans registered for the first time on or after 1 January 1987) 
may be of ordinary acrylic or polycarbonate plastic s materials, or 
 
i) the windscreen is so tinted that the visible lig ht transmitted is less than 70%, or 
 
j) except in the case of a window in the roof, or w indows complying with SANS 20043, or frosted or 
white glass in ambulances or hearses, any other win dow apart from the windscreen, is so tinted that th e 
visible light transmitted is less than 35%, or 
 
k) a windshield (if fitted) is so badly fitted or c racked that it is, in the opinion of the examiner, dangerous 
to the driver, or 
 
l) any film or tinting material applied to any wind screen, window or partition is not free from bubble s, 
tears or scratches, or 
 
m) any film or material with a textured surface or any fixture or attachment is positioned over or app lied 
to a windscreen, window or partition in such a mann er that its presence reduces visibility through suc h 
windscreen, window or partition in any direction.          
 
 
 
24                ©SWASA 2011 – All rights reserved  
SZNS 007:2011 
 
5.24 Windscreen wipers (if a windscreen is fitted) 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) the vehicle is not fitted with at least one wind screen wiper in front of the driver, that is capabl e of 
clearing the driver's view adequately, or 
 
b) a wiper is designed for manual operation only, o r 
 
c) the wiper mechanism or the blade or the control is not sufficiently operational to ensure a clear v iew 
for the driver, or 
 
d) the wiper blades have cracks, or 
 
e) the wiper blades are torn. 
 
5.25 Speedometer 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) the dial illumination does not work properly, or  
 
b) the speedometer is not in good working order. 
 
5.26 Hooter or audible warning device 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) the hooter is not clearly audible to a person of  normal hearing at a distance of at least 90 m, or 
 
b) the pitch varies, unless 
 
1) the vehicle is an ambulance, a rescue vehicle, a  civil protection vehicle, a police vehicle or a fi re-
fighting vehicle, when the sound shall be as prescr ibed in the relevant national legislation , or 
 
2) the sound is emitted from an anti-theft device t hat incorporates a siren, or 
 
c) the hooter is not operated by a button or switch  that breaks contact automatically when it is relea sed. 
 
5.27 Driving controls 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) a control is functionally incomplete or is crack ed, fractured, excessively corroded or not secure, or if 
any fasteners are missing, or 
 
b) a control is obstructed or impeded in its travel , or 
 
c) a control is so positioned that, when operated, it will impair proper control of the vehicle, or 
 
d) ancillary equipment or any other items liable to  interfere with proper control of the vehicle are p resent, 
or 
 
 
   
 
 
 
©SWASA 2011 – All rights reserved                     25  
SZNS 007:2011 
 
e) any pedal, other than the accelerator pedal, doe s not have the manufacturer's anti-slip provision ( which 
could include a grooved metal surface) or the pedal  surfaces are smooth metal, or 
 
f) any electrical equipment intended to be operated  by the driver is not provided with a proper workin g 
switch, or 
 
g) when the front wheels are in the straight-ahead position, the steering wheel obscures the speedomet er 
or the low air-pressure warning device, or both. 
 
5.28 Steering wheel 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) a vehicle belongs to any of the following groups  first registered on or after 23 July 2004, and the  
steering wheel is on the left-hand side: 
 
1) a goods vehicle with a gross vehicle mass exceed ing 3 500 kg; 
 
2) a minibus or midibus with a gross vehicle mass e xceeding 3 500 kg or that is designed or adapted to  
carry 12 or more persons, including the driver; 
 
3) a bus; 
 
4) a breakdown vehicle; or 
 
5) a motor vehicle used for the conveyance of perso ns for financial gain, 
 
b) any vehicle, first registered on or after the ti me specified on the relevant national legislation 
, and the steering wheel is on the left-hand side, or 
 
NOTE This does not apply to a vehicle manufactured, buil t or imported by a registered manufacturer, builder  or 
importer for the purpose of export or for the purpo se of testing, assessment or development and is ope rated on the 
public roads in terms of a motor trade number. 
 
c) the play at the steering wheel exceeds 45° or th e manufacturer's recommendation, or 
 
d) there is any relative movement between the steer ing column shaft and the steering wheel, or 
 
e) the retaining device on the steering wheel hub i s missing, or 
 
f) the steering wheel hub, rim or any spoke is brok en or damaged, or 
 
g) the steering wheel is obviously home-made, or 
 
h) the steering wheel is of a size that is unsafe t o control the vehicle or permanently obscures 
instruments, or 
 
i) the steering is inoperative, or 
 
j) the steering wheel is fitted with any anti-theft  device that enables the steering wheel to be 
disconnected from the steering mechanism, or 
 
k) access to the vehicle is restricted by the (too big) steering wheel.  
   
 
 
26                ©SWASA 2011 – All rights reserved  
     SZNS 007:2011 
5.29 Steering column 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) the centre of the steering wheel exhibits excess ive up and down (end float) movement in line with t he 
steering column, or 
 
b) the top of the steering column exhibits excessiv e radial movement from the axis of the steering col umn 
(side play), or 
 
c) a flexible coupling or universal joint is excess ively worn or is not secure, or 
 
d) any fasteners are missing, or 
 
e) there are any signs of repair by heating or weld ing, or 
 
f) a column or rod is damaged or bent, or 
 
g) a collapsible column or rod has been repaired af ter collapse, or 
 
h) adjustable columns do not lock in all positions designed by the manufacturer, or there are 
modifications not approved by the manufacturer. 
 
 
5.30 Handlebars and steering (motor cycles/tricycle s/quadrucycles only) 
 
 
Examine the handlebars, front forks, connections an d components from the handlebars to the front wheel  
or wheels and reject if: 
 
a) handlebars are not symmetrical, or 
 
b) the distance between the outside edges of the ha ndlebars is not at least: 
 
1) 600 mm for a motor cycle/tricycle/quadrucycle wi th an engine capacity of 200 cc or more, 
and 
 
2) 500 mm on all other motor cycles/tricycles/quadr ucycles, or 
 
c) the outer ends of the hand grips are: 
 
1) higher than 500 mm above the seat, or 
 
2) lower than the seat, or 
 
3) more than 800 mm apart, or 
 
d) handlebars are reconstructed or modified, or 
 
e) the steering locks on both sides are not approxi mately the same, or 
 
f) the handlebars foul any part of the vehicle, or 
 
g) with the handbrake applied, there is any bending  or twisting or, with the front wheels lifted off t he 
ground, excess stiffness, roughness, looseness or f orward or backward play of the steering, or 
   
 
 
 
©SWASA 2011 – All rights reserved                    27  
SZNS 007:2011  
 
h) the steering damper (if fitted) is not in good c ondition, and where relevant, not capable of adjust ment, 
or 
 
i) there is any play on the fork, or 
 
j) there is an excessive amount of lost motion (bac klash) in the steering mechanism from the straight-
ahead position, or 
 
k) the free movement of the handlebar is excessive,  or 
 
j) when an assistant moves the handlebars gently to  and fro, and the connections and joints of the fro nt 
forks and components are carefully observed, 
 
1) there is any sign that any part of the steering mechanism has been redesigned or modified 
(other than to incorporate a modification made or a pproved by the manufacturer), or 
 
2) there is excessive looseness in any connection o r joint, or 
 
3) any steering connection is not securely locked, or 
 
4) packing material of any kind has been used in an y steering connection or joint in order to take up 
clearance caused by damage or wear. 
 
NOTE When steering parts are worn to an extent that crea tes doubt as to whether or not the motor cycle/ 
tricycle/quadrucycle should be rejected, use the pe rformance of the vehicle during the road test as th e deciding 
factor. 
 
5.31 Air or vacuum warning device of braking system s (where applicable) 
Reject if: 
a) any motor vehicle is equipped with a service bra ke that is operated solely on air or vacuum that is  not 
equipped with an air or vacuum warning device, or 
b) any motor vehicle is equipped or intended to dra w a trailer and that trailer is fitted with an air or 
vacuum brake if the warning device is not fitted in  the driving compartment (as indicated in the relev ant 
regulation of the relevant national legislation  of  the drawing vehicle as intended by the relevant na tional 
legislation , or 
c) the device that is intended to give visible or a udible warning of the pressure becoming such that t he 
brake is incapable of stopping the vehicle as speci fied in 5.55 and 5.56, is missing or inoperative. 
 
5.32 Braking systems — Build-up of air pressure or vacuum (where applicable) 
 
Reject if the time between starting the engine with  the reservoirs empty and reaching the operating 
pressure exceeds the limits specified in SANS 20013  or SANS 1207 or SANS 1051 (all parts), as 
relevant. 
 
5.33 Hand levers controlling mechanical braking sys tems (inspection in vehicle) 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) the brake lever is fractured or excessively corr oded, or 
 
 
   
 
 
 
28                  ©SWASA 2011 – All rights reserved  
SZNS 007:2011 
 
b) the wear of the pawl mechanism or in the lever p ivot is excessive, or 
 
c) the lever does not operate correctly, or 
 
d) any fasteners are missing, or 
 
e) any part shows signs of having been repaired by heating or welding. 
 
5.34 Service brake pedal (inspection in vehicle) 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) there is excessive wear or travel in the pedal o r in its linkage, or 
 
b) the designed movement of the pedal is obstructed  or there is insufficient clearance to allow for 
any adjustment, or 
 
c) any attachments to the pedal assembly are loose,  or 
 
d) any part shows signs of having been repaired by heating or welding. 
 
5.35 Service brake operation (inspection in vehicle ) 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) the air pressure or vacuum decreases when the pe dal is kept depressed with the engine running, or 
 
b) in the case of a hydraulic system, there is spon giness or the pedal creeps down when a light, firm 
pressure is maintained on the pedal, or 
 
c) in the case of a vacuum system, no dip can be fe lt when the engine is started and pressure is 
maintained on the pedal. 
 
5.36 Hand-operated air brake valves (inspection in vehicle) 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) there is any fracture, damage or insecure attach ment, or 
 
b) full travel of the control is obstructed, or 
 
c) any connection is loose, or 
 
d) there is an audible leak in the system. 
 
5.37 Chassis or frame 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) there are any cracks in, or if there is excessiv e corrosion of, any cross member or main member, or  
 
b) any cross member or main member is deformed to t he extent that the control of the vehicle or safe 
carriage of the load could be affected, or        
 
   
 
 
 
©SWASA 2011 – All rights reserved                    29 
SZNS 007:2011 
 
c) any flitch plate, nut, bolt or other fastening b etween the frame and a cross member is loose or ins ecure, 
or is missing, or 
 
d) there is any unsatisfactory or suspect welding ( in the opinion of the examiner), or 
 
e) there has been any modification or drilling that  weakens the chassis or frame. 
 
5.38 Electrical wiring and equipment 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) any wiring is not properly insulated or excessiv e corrosion is present, or 
 
b) any wiring is not secured or is chafing in a man ner likely to affect its insulation, or 
 
c) the battery and battery carrier are not secure, or 
 
d) the battery case is leaking or a battery cap is missing, or 
 
e) any switch is loose or does not operate correctl y, or any fuses have been substituted with, for exa mple, 
metal foil, nails or copper wire. 
 
5.39 Engine 
 
5.39.1 Starting and functioning 
 
5.39.1.1  Check whether the engine functions normally. 
 
5.39.1.2  Reject if: 
 
a) the engine is not capable of being started by th e self-starter or, if not equipped with a self- sta rter, by 
means of a crank handle or similar device, or 
 
b) the engine is misfiring, or 
 
c) the engine lacks power to the extent that the ve hicle would hinder road traffic, or 
 
d) engine failure appears to be imminent (for examp le heavy big-end knocking). 
 
5.39.2 Fitting of non-standard engines 
 
5.39.2.1  If any engine is fitted that is not of the standar d make and type for that particular vehicle, reject  
if, in the opinion of the examiner, the engine is e xcessively powerful for the vehicle in question. 
 
5.39.2.2  Check for driving and steering stability. 
 
5.39.2.3  When a heavier engine has been fitted, check if th e chassis had been strengthened to take the 
bigger load. 
 
5.39.3 Engine cover 
 
Reject if the engine is not so covered as not to be  a source of danger to any person (motor 
cycles/tricycles/quadrucycles are exempted). 
 
   
 
 
 
30               ©SWASA 2011 – All rights reserved  
SZNS 007:2011 
 
5.40 Engine and transmission mountings 
 
Reject if any mounting or mounting bracket: 
 
a) is missing or is loose or fractured, or 
 
b) has deteriorated to the extent that its effectiv eness is impaired, or 
 
c) is poorly welded, or 
 
d) has had its effectiveness impaired because of cu tting of the chassis or the bodywork. 
 
5.41 Drive train (motor cycles/tricycles/quadrucycl es only) 
 
Reject if, in the case of a vehicle that has a driv ing chain and sprockets, 
 
a) the chain is out of alignment or not properly te nsioned, or 
 
b) the chain is excessively worn or the chain guard  is missing, or 
 
c) the sprocket teeth are "hooked" or otherwise exc essively worn. 
 
5.42 Oil leaks 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) there is oil leaking from any assembly to the ex tent that the oil visibly moves or drips during 
inspection, or 
 
b) there is any evidence of excessive oil spray, or  
 
c) the oil level is not visible on the dip stick, w here fitted, or 
 
d) with or without the engine running, there are ex cessive oil leaks, to the extent that the oil visib ly 
moves or drips during inspection. 
 
5.43 Fuel system and fuel tank 
 
Ensure that the oil in the engine is at normal leve l. Start the engine. Examine for leaks and reject i f: 
 
a) the fuel tank is not secure or if any part of th e system is leaking or has, in the opinion of the e xaminer, 
been repaired in an unsatisfactory manner, or 
 
b) a filler cap is missing or is defective, or 
 
c) fuel pipes are damaged, chafed or not secured, o r 
 
d) there is any leak in the fuel system. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
©SWASA 2011 – All rights reserved                 31  
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5.44 Suspension units 
 
5.44.1 Springs 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) any spring is broken or sagging, or has been "pa cked" (to counter sagging) with materials or all 
steering components (ball joints), or components ot her than those specified by the manufacturer, or 
 
b) any spring leaf or U-bolt is missing or is loose , broken or cracked, or 
 
c) a spring centre bolt or clip is missing or is br oken, or 
 
d) the springs do not maintain the unladen vehicle in a reasonably level position, or 
 
e) there is any crack in the spring cradle, or any part shows signs of having been repaired by heating  or 
welding. 
 
5.44.2 Shackles 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) a shackle or shackle pin shows excessive wear, o r 
 
b) the wear in any shackle bearing is excessive, or  
 
c) the side clearance in a shackle is excessive, or  
 
d) a slipper is fractured, excessively worn or not securely fixed. 
 
5.44.3 Axle locating assembly 
 
Reject if: 
a) any part is missing, loose, fractured, permanent ly distorted or damaged, or 
b) bearing surfaces show signs of excessive wear, o r 
c) in the case of bonded suspension units, the flex ible element is not firm or there is evidence of fa ilure of 
the bond, or 
d) the vehicle is "crabbing". 
 
5.44.4 Air suspension 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) there is an excessive air leak in the system, or  
b) the levelling system is defective, or 
c) when fully deflated, a suspension bellows is in such a condition that the body of the vehicle fouls  any 
road wheel, or 
 
d) the vehicle is noticeably leaning. 
   
 
 
 
32                 ©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved 
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5.44.5 Hydraulic suspension 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) any fittings or hydraulic pipes are loose, chafi ng or leaking, or 
 
b) the operation of the hydraulic system is not as prescribed by the manufacturer. 
 
5.44.6 Front and rear forks (motor cycles/tricycles /quadrucycles only) 
 
Carefully examine the front and rear forks. Reject if: 
 
a) there is any sign of re-design or modification ( other than a modification made or approved by the 
manufacturer) of the front forks or suspension, or 
 
b) there is any crack, bend or twist (other than be nds or twists formed during the original manufactur ing 
process) in the front forks, or 
 
c) there is any sign of the forks having been heate d or welded (other than during the original 
manufacturing process), or 
 
d) any bolt or rivet is missing, or 
 
e) any brake torque arm is not properly secured, or  there is excessive play fore and aft in the front forks, 
or 
 
g) rear suspension fork bushes are excessively worn . 
 
5.44.7 Road test (motor cycles/tricycles/quadrucycl es only) 
 
Examine the performance of the steering and front s uspension in a road test on a road with a reasonabl y 
level, dry, smooth and hard surface (this test may be combined with the braking test on the road (see 
5.55.2)). Reject if: 
 
a) the vehicle cannot maintain a straight-ahead dir ection, or 
 
b) there is evidence of a wheel wobble, or 
 
c) any defect becomes apparent when the steering is  turned from side to side at a speed of 5 km/h to 1 0 
km/h. 
 
5.44.8 Semi-trailer 
 
Reject unless: 
 
a) a semi-trailer first registered on or after 1 Ju ly 1999 is fitted with only one axle or one axle un it, and 
 
b) the axle unit is fitted with only one type of su spension, namely either air suspension, steel suspe nsion 
or rubber suspension. 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved                    33 
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5.45 Shock absorbers 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) a shock absorber is loose, or 
 
b) an anchorage or a linkage is fractured or is exc essively worn, or 
 
c) a severe fluid or air leak is present, or 
 
d) a shock absorber is damaged to the extent that t he unit is not functioning correctly, or 
 
e) where it can be seen that the vehicle is designe d for the fitment of shock absorbers and these are 
missing, or 
 
f) in the case of motor cycles/tricycles/quadrucycl es, the front mudguard or frame touches the tyre, w hen 
the handlebar is pressed down, or the handlebar "hi ts back solid" when it is allowed to rebound. 
 
5.46 Stub axles, wheel bearings, control arms and k ingpins 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) there is excessive play present, or 
 
b) the kingpin or ball-joint assembly is loose in t he axle beam or its pin-retaining device is missing , or 
 
c) the control arm bushes are worn or any part is n ot properly affixed or is missing, or 
 
d) the control arms are cracked, bent, twisted or w elded other than by the vehicle manufacturer. 
 
5.47 Stabilizers and anti-roll bars 
 
Reject if: 
a) a stabilizer or an anti-roll bar (when critical to vehicle safety), as specified by the manufacture r, is 
missing, or 
b) a stabilizer or an anti-roll bar is bent or has been repaired by heating or welding, or 
c) the stabilizer bushes are worn, or 
d) the stabilizer mountings are in a poor condition , or 
e) any welds or bends, other than those introduced by the vehicle manufacturer, or any signs of damage  
are apparent in the front suspension. 
 
5.48 Steering mechanism 
Reject if: 
a) any part of the steering mechanism is missing, o r is cracked, fractured, damaged, distorted, loose or 
excessively worn, or 
b) the proper movement of any part is obstructed by  another part of the vehicle, or 
   
         
 
34                                                                                                                       ©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved                                                                                                        
 
SZNS 007:2011 
 
c) any fastener, retaining device or locking device  is missing or is not correctly fitted, or 
 
d) any part shows signs of having been repaired by packing, heating or welding that is not approved by  
the vehicle manufacturer, or 
 
e) the steering mechanism does not operate smoothly  throughout its working range, or 
 
f) there are excessive oil leaks, or 
 
g) the minimum turning radius of the vehicle exceed s 17,5 m, or 
 
h) steering stops are missing, or are not similarly  adjusted on each side. 
 
5.49 Power steering 
 
Examine the power steering both with and without th e engine running. Reject if: 
 
a) the rod anchorage is fractured or loose, or 
 
b) the cylinder is fractured or leaking, or 
 
c) the fluid pipes are damaged or leaking or are fo uling other parts of the vehicle, or 
 
d) there is excessive free valve travel or the unit  is out of alignment or the power assistance is 
inoperative, or 
e) there is evidence that the power assistance (whe n critical to the vehicle safety) has been removed or 
disconnected. 
5.50 Drive train (all vehicles) 
Reject if: 
a) a flange bolt is loose or is missing or a flange  is loose on its shaft, or 
b) there is excessive wear in a shaft bearing, or 
c) a bearing housing is fractured or not secure, or  
d) there is a damaged or bent shaft, or 
e) there is significant deterioration of the flexib le mounting of a bearing housing, or 
f) there is excessive wear on the splined joint, or  
g) there is excessive vibration or abnormal noise ( or both), or 
h) the clutch slips or gives excessive shudder, or 
i) the gears cannot be selected or will not remain in mesh without manual assistance, or 
j) in the case of an automatic gearbox, the engine will start with the gear lever in one or more of th e 
forward or reverse positions or does not start in t he neutral position, or 
k) a boot of a constant velocity joint is torn or p ermits lubricant to escape, or  l) there is excessive play up and down, and radial play. 
 
©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved                    35 
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5.51 Wheel alignment 
 
Use an acceptable alignment indicator to measure th e side slip or "scuff" on the front wheels. Check t he 
wheel camber. 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) the side slip or "scuff" of the front wheels exc eeds 12 mm/m or the manufacturer's specified limits , or 
 
b) the camber exceeds the manufacturer's specified limits, or 
 
c) in the case of a semi-trailer, any axle is out o f square to the longitudinal centre line of the veh icle by 
more than 10,0 mm per metre of length of trailer, o r 
 
d) in the case of a motor cycle/tricycle/quadrucycl e, the front wheel(s) (in the straight-ahead positi on) and 
rear wheel(s) are not in the same vertical plane. W hen relevant, check the alignment of the side-car 
wheel and reject if it is not parallel to or has sl ight "toe-in" towards the front wheel (in the strai ght-
ahead position). 
 
5.52 Braking system ― General 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) any part of the braking system is missing, or is  cracked, fractured, damaged, distorted, loose or 
excessively worn, or 
 
NOTE Excessive in this context means wear to the point w here: 
 
o there is a danger or failure; or 
 
o the strength of the equipment has been clearly redu ced; or 
 
o the wear is more than that specified by the manufac turer; or 
 
o there is free play where it should not be present; or 
 
o the efficiency of force transmission or displacemen t has been reduced. 
 
b) the proper movement of any part is obstructed by  another part of the vehicle, or 
 
c) any fastener, retaining device or locking device  is missing or is incorrectly fitted, or 
 
d) any part shows signs of having been repaired by heating or welding, or 
 
e) in the case of motor vehicles first registered o n or after 1 July 1990, an anti-theft device is con nected to 
the braking system or in any way interferes with th e braking system, or 
 
f) except in the case in paragraph (h), any goods v ehicle the gross vehicle mass of which exceeds 
3 500 kg, a minibus, bus or tractor that was first registered on or after 1 January 1986 is not fitted  with 
brakes that comply with SANS 1051 (all parts) or SA NS 1207, or 
 
g) a tractor not designed for, or capable of, opera ting at a speed exceeding 35 km/h or a trailer draw n by 
such tractor, and first registered on or after 1 Ju ly 1999, is not fitted with brakes that comply with  
SANS 1051 (all parts), or SANS 1207, or SANS 1447 ( parts 1 and 2), or 
   
 
 
36                ©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved  
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h) in the case of a trailer with a gross vehicle ma ss exceeding 3 500 kg, the trailer is not fitted wi th a 
service brake; and in the case of a trailer with a gross vehicle mass exceeding 750 kg and not exceedi ng 3 
500 kg, the trailer is not fitted with either an ov errun brake or a service brake, or 
 
i) a trailer, of which the gross vehicle mass excee ds 3 500 kg and that was registered for the first t ime on 
or after 14 February 2004, is not fitted with brake s that comply with SANS 20013 equivalent to the lev el 
of ECE R13.08, or 
 
j) a minibus, midibus or bus, operating in terms of  an operating licence issued in accordance with the  
relevant national legislation, and registered for t he first time on or after 4 September 2006, does no t 
comply with the requirements of the type II test in  SANS 1207 or SANS 20013. 
 
5.53 Braking system ― Specific items 
 
Reject if any of the following are found: 
 
a) excessively worn linings, pads or discs; or 
 
b) fractured brake drums; or 
 
c) levers set to incorrect angles; or 
 
d) linings or pads contaminated with oil; or 
 
e) operating cylinders or diaphragms with excessive  travel (if the manufacturer's service limits are n ot 
available, a limit of 55 mm for diaphragm types or half the length of the cylinder for piston types sh all 
apply); or 
 
f) spring brakes not operating, or wound off, or wi th the rewinding bolt missing; or 
 
g) bending of, or damage to, brake rods; or 
 
h) fraying of, or other damage to, brake cables; or  
 
i) any leakage of hydraulic oil; or 
 
j) brake pipes excessively chafed, corroded or dama ged, or inadequately secured; or 
 
k) brake pipes kinked or bulging, or so positioned as to be liable to be damaged by moving parts or by  
heat; or 
 
l) an air reservoir with no provision for draining,  either automatically or manually; or 
 
m) trailer couplings that are interchangeable but n ot coded; or 
 
n) an incorrectly adjusted load-sensing valve; or 
 
o) automatic slack adjusters that have any parts mi ssing; or 
 
p) leaking air or vacuum connections; or 
 
q) clogged air cleaners; or 
  r) frayed, worn or incorrectly tensioned air compre ssor drive belts; or 
 
 
©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved                    37 
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s) hydraulic reservoirs without caps; or 
t) excessive water or oil (or both) in any air rese rvoir; or 
u) brake levers that are not set to the correct ang les, as shown in figure 4  
           
 
                    
5.54 Trailer parking brake 
Reject if: 
a) the brake does not operate on at least two wheel s on the same axle, or 
 
b) the brake mechanism is fractured, excessively wo rn or excessively corroded, or 
 
c) the parking brake cannot be applied. 
 
5.55 Brakes and braking performance (motor cycles o nly) 
 
5.55.1  Subject to the provisions of all the braking regul ations given in the relevant national legislation ,  a 
vehicle shall be equipped with two separate braking  systems, one acting on the front wheel(s) and one on 
the rear wheel(s). The performance of each braking system shall be equivalent to that specified for an  
emergency brake and with both braking systems appli ed, their combined performance shall be equivalent 
to the performance specified for a service brake.        
                         
            
            
   
38               ©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved 
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Reject if: 
 
a) there is not an adequate reserve of travel of bo th the footbrake pedal and the hand-operated brake lever 
when fully applied, or 
 
b) the footbrake pedal does not have a non-slip sur face, or 
 
c) the brakes are not so adjusted that (after makin g due allowance for nominal resistance to the rotat ion of 
the wheels owing to disc pad or transmission drag) the vehicle will move freely when the brakes are 
released, or 
 
d) a hydraulic brake is not capable of giving full and efficient application of the brake with only on e 
stroke of the lever or pedal (as relevant), or 
 
e) the lever or pedal of a hydraulic brake continue s to move under a constant pressure maintained for 1 
min, or 
 
f) the lever or pedal of a brake does not return to  its original position when released after applicat ion. 
 
5.55.2  With the vehicle travelling at an initial speed of  35 km/h on a road with a reasonably level, dry, 
smooth and hard surface, the tyres properly inflate d and the engine disengaged, take measurements 
(under all conditions of loading) from the actual i nstant at which braking controls are moved. If the 
following maximum stopping distances are exceeded, repeat the test, and, if necessary, carry it out a third 
time: 
 
Handbrake:     30m 
Footbrake :     30m 
Handbrake and footbrake combined:  14m 
Reject if, 
a) during the final test(s), the vehicle cannot, un der all conditions of loading, be stopped within th e 
appropriate maximum stopping distance, or 
b) the action of either brake is not even and contr ollable, or 
c) there is any grabbing of the brakes, or 
d) the brake application affects the steering or th e course of the vehicle. 
 
5.56 Braking performance (light and heavy vehicles)  
 
5.56.1 Service and emergency brakes 
 
5.56.1.1 General braking performance 
 
5.56.1.1.1  When tested according to 5.56.1.2.1, reject if 
 
a) the measured braking force is less than the requ ired braking force, or 
 
b) excessive drum ovality or disc distortion is sho wn by cyclical variation of the braking force, or 
 
c) the measured braking force of any individual bra ke is different from that of any other brake on the   same axle by more than 30%. 
 
 
©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved                    39 
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5.56.1.1.2  When tested according to 5.56.1.2.2, reject if: 
 
a) the stopping distance is more than, or the decel eration is less than, the appropriate value given i n 
tables 1 to 4 for light vehicles and in tables 5 to  8 for heavy vehicles, or 
 
b) during the road test there is excessive pedal tr avel or brake shudder or the vehicle is pulling to the left 
or right during the application of the brakes. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
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5.56.1.2 Test methods 
 
5.56.1.2.1 Brake roller test 
 
5.56.1.2.1.1  When using a weighbridge 
 
a) Calculate the required braking force on each whe el. Weigh the vehicle and obtain the mass of the fr ont 
and rear axle loads. Calculate the required braking  force per each wheel (for the front wheels, use th e 
front axle load and for the rear wheels, use the re ar axle load) using the following formula: 
 
 
Where, 
 
Fb  is the required braking force on each wheel in Ne wtons (KN); 
 
Ma  is the axle load (front or rear) in kilograms (kg ); 
 
f  is the required minimum deceleration (4,4 m/s2) i n metres per square second (m/s 2). 
 
b) Use a brake roller-testing machine that complies  with SANS 10216 and measure the braking force 
developed on each individual wheel. 
 
c) Compare the results obtained in 5.56.1.2.1.1(a) and (b). 
 
d) Reject if 5.56.1.2.1.1(b) is less than 5.56.1.2. 1.1(a). 
 
e) The load distribution of 67% at the front and 33 % at the rear is typical for a front wheel drive 
passenger car. For front wheel drive cars, the mass  distribution is closer to 50% at the front and 50%  at 
the rear. 
 
f) The load distribution of 67% at the front and 33 % at the rear is typical for a rear wheel drive pas senger 
car. For rear wheel drive cars, the mass distributi on is closer to 50% at the front and 50% at the rea r. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
42                ©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved  
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  5.56.1.2.1.2  When there is no weighbridge used 
 
a) Calculate the total braking force required using  the following formula: 
 
 
b) Repeat 5.56.1.2.1.1(b) and establish the total b raking force by adding the individual results obtai ned. 
 
c) Compare 5.56.1.2.1.2(a) and (b). 
 
d) Reject if 5.56.1.2.1.2(b) is less than 5.56.1.2. 1.2(a). 
 
NOTE Should the brake rollers lock up, the vehicle should not necessarily be failed. 
 
5.56.1.2.2 Road test 
 
The vehicle can be tested laden or unladen with the  vehicle travelling at a speed of 40 km/h (or, when  
relevant, at the speeds given in the appropriate of  tables 2, 4, 6 and 8) on a road with a reasonably dry, 
smooth and hard surface and with the engine disenga ged, apply the appropriate brake and note the 
general braking performance. Measure either 
 
a) the stopping distance from the point at which th e braking control first moved, to the point where t he 
vehicle stops, or 
 
b) the deceleration, using a decelerometer. 
 
5.56.2 Parking brake 
 
Test the performance of the parking brake (in both the forward and the reverse direction) on a gradien t of 
not more than 1:8, 33 (12%), or using an acceptable  brake roller test machine. Use the formula given 
below to determine the slope at which the vehicle w ill be kept by the parking brake. 
 
 
 
 
 
©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved                    43  
SZNS 007:2011  
  Reject if, 
 
a) with the engine disengaged, the parking brake al one cannot keep the vehicle stationary, or 
 
b) the slope obtained is less than the required 1:8 ,33 (12%). 
 
NOTE A vehicle may be presented laden or unladen. 
 
Alternatively, to calculate the minimum brake force  required for the park brake, the following method 
could be used: 
 
Tare × 0,12 × 9,81 ÷ 2 000 = minimum kilonewton bra ke force per wheel 
 
NOTE 1 Overrun brakes should be in accordance with this calculation. 
 
NOTE 2 All brake readings should be recorded on a t est sheet, if a roadworthy brake test was carried o ut. 
 
5.57 Dimensions 
 
5.57.1 Overall length 
 
Reject if the overall length of: 
 
a) a bus-train exceeds 22 m (see figure 5), or 
 
b) a single vehicle, excluding a semi-trailer, excl uding any drawbar or coupling, exceeds 12,5 m (see 
figure 6), or 
 
c) a trailer with one axle or axle unit (other than  a semi-trailer), the GVM of which does not exceed 
12 000 kg, exceeds 8 m, excluding the length of the  drawbar or coupling (see figure 7), or 
 
d) a trailer that is coupled to a drawing vehicle i n such a manner that the trailer and the drawing ve hicle 
cannot swivel in a horizontal plane at the coupling , if the overall length including any drawbar or 
coupling exceeds 1,8 m (see figure 8), or 
 
e) a trailer with one axle or axle unit (other than  a semi-trailer), the GVM of which exceeds 
12 000 kg, exceeds 11,3 m, excluding the length of the drawbar or coupling (see figure 9), or 
 
f) a trailer not referred to in (c), (d) and (e) ab ove (other than a semi-trailer), the GVM of which e xceeds 
12 000 kg, exceeds 12,5 m, excluding the length of any drawbar or coupling (see figure 10), or 
 
g) a bus exceeds 15 m. 
 
NOTE This subclause does not apply to a breakdown v ehicle while towing another motor vehicle. 
 
5.57.2 Overall width 
 
Reject if the overall width of any vehicle (see fig ure 11), including a minibus, exceeds 2,5 m except that 
2,6 m is permitted in the case of: 
 
a) goods vehicles with a GVM of at least 12 000 kg,  and 
 
b) buses of which the distance between the centre l ines of the two front wheels exceeds 1,9 m. 
 
 
 
 
 
44                ©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved  
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46                  ©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved  
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5.57.3 Overall height 
Reject if the overall height of: 
a) a double-deck bus exceeds 4,65 m (see figure 12) , or 
b) any vehicle (other than a double-deck bus) laden  or unladen, exceeds 4,3 m (see figure 12). 
5.57.4 Wheelbase 
Reject if the wheelbase of: 
a) a semi-trailer exceeds 10 m (see figure 13), unl ess a certificate issued by the inspectorate of 
manufacturers, builders and importers, which reflec ts that the cornering, reversing and road damage 
performance of the semi-trailer presents no greater  hazard than for a 9 m wheelbase tandem axle semi-
trailer, is affixed to the semi-trailer or carried in the drawing vehicle concerned, or 
b) a bus-train exceeds 15 m (see figure 14), or 
c) any other vehicle exceeds 8,5 m (see figure 15).  
 
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48                ©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved  
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5.57.5 Overhang 
5.57.5.1  Reject if the front overhang of 
a) a semi-trailer exceeds 1,8 m (see figure 16), or  
 
©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved                    49 
SZNS 007:2011   
b ) any vehicle (other than a semi-trailer or a tra iler with one axle or one axle unit) 
1 ) exceeds 60% of the wheelbase, or 
2) exceeds 6,2 m less half the wheelbase, in the ca se of a vehicle in which the front surface ofthe 
backrest of the driver's seat at seat level is with in 1,7 m of the front end of the vehicle, when such  seat, 
if adjustable, is in the rearmost position (see fig ure 17), or 
 
NOTE In the case of a bus-train, this wheelbase is the distance measured from the centre of the front 
axle to the centre of the middle axle. 
3) exceeds 5,8 m less half the wheelbase, in the ca se of any other vehicle. 
 
 
 
5.57.5.2  Reject if the rear overhang of 
 
a) a bus, self-propelled caravan or any vehicle des igned or adapted for use in connection with street 
cleaning or the disposal of refuse or sewage exceed s 70% of its wheelbase (see figures 18 and 19), or 
 
b) any trailer with one axle or one axle unit, othe r than a semi-trailer, exceeds 50% of the length of  the 
body of the trailer (see figure 20), or 
 
 
 
 
 
50                ©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved 
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c) any trailer, other than a semi-trailer, with two  axles, where the distance between the centre lines  of the 
axles is less than 1,2 m, exceeds 50% of the length  of the body of the trailer (see figure 20), or 
 
d) any other vehicle exceeds 60% of the wheelbase. 
 
 
 
 
©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved                    51  
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5.58 Lamps and lighting 
 
5.58.1 General 
 
Reject if 
 
a) any lamp required in terms of the relevant natio nal legislation  is not fitted; these 
are 
 
1) headlamps with main and dipped beams, 
 
2) front position lamps, 
 
3) rear lamps, 
 
4) stop lamps, and 
 
5) number plate lamp(s), or 
 
b) any lamp listed in (a) above is damaged, does no t work or is not secure, or 
 
c) any lamp is not bright enough to be seen from a distance of 150 m when visibility is such that 
persons and vehicles are not clearly discernible at  150 m, or 
 
d) any lamp other than one authorized in terms of t he relevant national legislation is fitted, or 
 
e) any lamp, excluding a reversing lamp and an offi cial flashing identification lamp, emits a white, a  
yellow or an amber light (except as provided in 5.6 2(b)) towards the rear, or 
 
f) any lamp, excluding an official flashing identif ication lamp, emits a red light towards the front o r to 
either side of the vehicle, or 
 
g) any lamp is obscured by portions of the vehicle,  excluding protective lamp grilles, or 
 
h) any lamp, excluding headlamps, fog lamps, spotla mps and inspection lamps, does not emit a 
diffused light. 
 
NOTE A brake anti-lock warning light that is fitted to t he front of a trailer may emit any colour. 
 
5.58.2 Headlamps 
 
Reject if 
 
a) the centre of any headlamp is less than 450 mm, or more than 1,4 m from ground level, unless 
homologated as such by the regulatory authority, or  more than 500 mm behind the front end of the 
vehicle, or 
 
b) on each side of the longitudinal centre line of the vehicle, there is no dipped-beam headlamp with the 
outermost portion of its illuminating surface withi n 400 mm of the outer edge of the vehicle, unless a  
parking lamp is provided on the same side, or 
 
c) on each side of the longitudinal centre line of the vehicle, there are more than three headlamps or  more 
than one dipped-beam headlamp, or 
 
 
 
 
 
52                ©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved  
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d) any main or dipped beam is incorrectly adjusted in terms of the relevant national legislation , or 
 
e) headlamp beams are not of similar intensity, or 
 
f) any lens or reflective surface is clouded, disco loured, broken or loose, or 
 
g) the dip switch does not function properly, or 
 
h) any lamp is fitted with a lens of clear material , unless the lamp has other means of preventingglar e, or 
 
i) in the case of a motor cycle, a side car is not fitted with either 
 
1) a headlamp, or 
 
2) a parking lamp on the outer edge of the front of  the side car, in accordance with 5.58.4(c), or 
 
j) in the case of a motor tricycle with two wheels in front or a motor quadrucycle, on each side of th e 
longitudinal centre line of the vehicle, there is n o dipped-beam headlamp with the outermost portion o f its 
illuminating surface within 400 mm of the outer edg e of the vehicle, unless a parking lamp is provided  on 
the same side, or 
 
k) the main beam and dipped beam of a head lamp fit ted to a motor vehicle first registered on or after  1 
January 2002 do not comply with the requirements of  SANS 1046 and SANS 1376-2. 
 
5.58.3 Fog lamps (if fitted) 
 
Reject if 
 
a) there are more than two fog lamps fitted to the vehicle at the front or at the rear, or 
 
b) any fog lamp is not correctly adjusted, or 
 
c) any fog lamp fitted to the front of a vehicle ha s the highest point of its illuminating surface hig her 
than the highest point of the illuminating surface of any dipped-beam headlamp, or 
 
d) any fog lamp fitted to the rear of a vehicle has  the lowest point of its illuminating surface less 
than 250 mm from ground level, or the highest point  of its illuminating surface more than 1 m 
from ground level, or 
 
e) any fog lamp at the rear of the vehicle can be b rought into operation without a front fog lamp or 
headlamp being switched on, or 
 
f) a motor cycle side car has fog lamps, unless the  motor cycle is also fitted with a fog lamp or 
parking lamp, or 
 
g) a motor cycle has a fog lamp in front but its si de car does not have a parking lamp. 
 
5.58.4 Parking lamps (if fitted) 
 
Reject if 
 
a) when one parking lamp is fitted at the rear, it is not fitted to the right-hand side of the vehicle , or  
 
 
 
 
 
 
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b) when two parking lamps are fitted at the front a nd at the rear, any set is not fitted equidistant o n 
either side of the longitudinal centre line of the vehicle, or 
 
c) that portion of the illuminating surface furthes t from the longitudinal centre line of the vehicle is 
more than 500 mm from the adjacent outer edge of th e vehicle. 
 
5.58.5 Spotlamps (swivelling lamps) 
 
Reject any vehicle fitted with a lamp that swivels,  except those vehicles allowed for in terms of the 
relevant national legislation , or where, in the op inion of the examiner, such a lamp is used only as an 
inspection lamp. 
 
5.58.6 Rear lamps (rear position lamps), number pla te lamps and stop lamps 
 
5.58.6.1 Rear lamps (rear position lamps) 
 
Reject if 
 
a) there is not at least one of the following: 
 
1) one rear lamp fitted on either side of the longi tudinal centre line of the vehicle, not more than 4 00 mm 
from the outer edges of the widest part of the vehi cle; or 
 
2) one rear lamp in the centre in the case of a mot or cycle/tricycle/quadrucycle or a motor 
vehicle registered before 1 January 1981; or 
 
3) one rear lamp to the right of the centre line of  the vehicle, in the case of a motor cycle/tricycle / 
quadrucycle or a motor vehicle registered before 1 January 1981, or 
 
b) any rear lamp does not emit a red light of lumin ous intensity of at least two candelas (2 cd), or 
 
c) in the case of a motor vehicle registered before  1 January 1981, the height, from ground level, to the 
lowest point of the illuminating surface(s) of the rear lamp(s) mentioned in (a) above is lower than 3 00 
mm, or the highest point of the illuminating surfac e(s) is higher than 2,1 m, or 
 
d) in the case of a motor vehicle registered on or after 1 January 1981, the height, from ground level  to 
the lowest point of the illuminating surface(s) of the rear lamp(s) mentioned in (a) above is lower th an 
350 mm, or the highest point of the illuminating su rface(s) is higher than 1,5 m (if the structure of the 
vehicle makes this impractical, the rear lamps may be fitted so that the highest point of the illumina ting 
surface(s) of the rear lamp is up to 2,1 m from gro und level), or 
 
e) in the case of a motor vehicle registered before  15 July 1988, excluding a vehicle manufactured bef ore 
this date and first registered after this date, any  rear position lamp is not visible from the specifi ed angles 
in the horizontal plane as given below and in figur e 21: 
 
1) inwards 45°; and 
 
2) outwards 80°. 
 
(Figure 21 shows how the angles can be measured.) 
 
NOTE In all cases, additional rear lamps may be fit ted more than 2,1 m from ground level  
 
 
 
 
 
 
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5.58.6.2 Number plate lamps 
 
Reject if 
 
a) the rear number plate is not illuminated with a white light (provided by the rear lamp or some 
other lamp), or 
 
b) the white light is visible from the rear other t han by reflection. 
 
5.58.6.3 Stop lamps 
 
Reject if 
 
a) any stop lamp is missing, or 
 
b) any stop lamp does not emit a red light of great er intensity than the rear lamp (rear position 
lamp), or 
 
c) any stop lamp does not light up when the service  brake is applied, or 
 
d) any stop lamp, when in use, is not visible from 30 m in normal sunlight, or 
 
e) any stop lamp is not visible from the required a ngles given in the relevant national legislation , or 
 
NOTE Figure 22 shows how the specified angles in the hor izontal plane of 45° (inward and outwards) can be 
measured. 
 
f) the height of the centre of any stop lamp is low er than 300 mm or higher than 2,1 m from ground lev el 
(although additional stop lamps may be fitted at a height above 2,1 m), or 
 
 
 
 
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g) except in the case of a tractor, or a trailer dr awn by a tractor, both of which may have only one s top 
lamp, there are not two stop lamps, or 
 
h) the two stop lamps are not 
 
1) both fitted equidistant from the longitudinal ce ntre line of the motor vehicle, and 
 
2) fitted one on each side of the longitudinal cent re line, or 
 
i) in the case of a single stop lamp on a motor cyc le/tricycle/quadrucycle, the lamp is not in the cen tre or 
to the right of the longitudinal centre line of the  vehicle, or 
 
j) in the case of a motor quadrucycle or motor tric ycle with two back wheels, the two stop lamps are n ot 
 
1) both fitted equidistant from the longitudinal ce ntre line of the motor vehicle, and 
 
2) fitted one on each side of the longitudinal cent re line.  
 
 
5.58.7 Reversing lamps  (if fitted) 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) when a reversing lamp is under the direct contro l of the driver, it is not connected to a device th at 
makes the driver aware that the lamp is in operatio n, or 
 
b) when a reversing lamp is not controlled by the d river, it operates when the reverse gear is not eng aged, 
or 
 
c) more than two reversing lamps are fitted, or 
 
d) the light from a reversing lamp is not diffused and white. 
 
5.58.8 Side marker lamps (if fitted) 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) there is no lamp within 400 mm of each end of th e vehicle, or 
 
 
 
 
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b) any lamp is less than 300 mm from ground level, or 
 
c) the distance between successive lamps on any veh icle or vehicle combination exceeds 3,6 m, or 
 
d) the lamp does not emit a yellow or amber light, except that the furthest forward lamp may emit a 
white light and the rearmost lamp may emit a red or  amber light, or 
 
e) the lamp does not face outwards from the side to  which it is fitted in a direction at right angles to 
the longitudinal centre line of the vehicle to whic h it is fitted, or 
 
f) in the case of a breakdown vehicle, side marker lamps are not fitted. 
 
5.58.9 End outline marker lamps (if fitted) 
 
Reject if 
 
a) the lamps do not emit a white light to the front  and a red light to the rear, or 
 
b) the lamps are not fitted as near as possible to the outer edges of the vehicle or are not as high 
up as possible. 
 
5.58.10 Front position lamps 
 
Reject if 
 
a) the lamps are more than 400 mm from the outer ed ges of the widest part of the vehicle or vehicle 
combination or (if the vehicle is presented laden) the load thereon, or on trailers, if fitted, within  150 mm 
of the outer edges, or 
 
b) the lamps do not emit a white light visible from  the front, or 
 
c) the lamps are less than 350 mm or more than 2,1 m from ground level, except that for vehicles first  
registered before 1 January 1985, the lamps may be fitted lower than 350 mm and as close to the height  
of 350 mm as possible, or 
 
d) in the case of a vehicle of gross vehicle mass e xceeding 3 500 kg and first registered after 
15 July 1988, excluding a vehicle manufactured befo re this date and first registered after this date, any 
front position lamp is not visible from the specifi ed angles in the horizontal plane as given below an d in 
figure 23: 
 
1) inwards 45°; and 
 
2) outwards 80°. 
 
5.58.11 Identification lamps  (if fitted) 
 
Reject, in case of a bus or goods vehicle, the gros s vehicle mass of which exceeds 3 500 kg, if 
 
a) the power of any identification lamp exceeds 21 W, or 
 
b) the lamp is not visible directly from the front of the vehicle, or 
 
c) the light emitted in the case of a bus or a good s vehicle is not green or amber. 
 
 
 
 
 
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5.58.12 Intermittently flashing identification lamp s (if fitted) 
 
Reject if 
 
a) the light emitted in the case of a police or tra ffic control vehicle is not intermittently flashing  blue, or 
blue and amber, or blue and red, or blue and amber and red, or 
 
b) the light emitted in the case of a road maintena nce, distribution and supply of electricity, essent ial 
public service, breakdown, refuse compacter, abnorm al load or abnormal load escort vehicle is not 
intermittently flashing amber, or 
 
c) the light emitted in the case of an ambulance, f ire-fighting or rescue vehicle is not intermittentl y 
flashing red, or 
 
d) the light emitted in the case of a vehicle drive n by a person while he/she is engaged in civil prot ection, 
as in accordance with the relevant national legisla tion , is not intermittently flashing green. 
 
5.59 Retro-reflectors 
 
5.59.1 General 
 
Reject if any retro-reflector 
a) does not bear a national or international certif ication mark of approval, except that where a refle ctor is 
incorporated in a cluster of lamps, the approval ma rk may be on the cluster instead of on the reflecto r, or 
b) is missing, has deteriorated, is not in a vertic al position, is broken or is obscured, or 
c) is not facing squarely to the front, side or rea r, as appropriate, of the vehicle, or  
 
 
 
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d) measured at its centre, is less than 300 mm or m ore than 1,5 m from ground level, or 
 
e) has a reflected colour that is not white in the case of front, red in the case of rear and yellow i n the case 
of side retro-reflectors. This provision is not app licable to a motor vehicle manufactured, built or 
imported by a registered manufacturer, builder or i mporter, in which case any red retro- reflectors fi tted 
at the side towards the rear of such vehicle are ac ceptable, or 
 
f) is fitted to any movable part of the vehicle. 
 
5.59.2 Front retro-reflectors 
 
5.59.2.1 Front retro-reflectors on trailers 
 
Reject if 
 
a) two white retro-reflectors are not fitted at the  same height at the front on each side of and 
equidistant from the vehicle's longitudinal centre line, or 
 
b) a retro-reflector is so placed that the portion of its reflective surface furthest from the longitu dinal 
centre line of the vehicle is further than 150 mm f rom the outer edge of the widest portion of the veh icle. 
 
5.59.2.2 Front retro-reflectors (if fitted) on othe r vehicles (excluding motor cycles/tricycles/ 
quadrucycles) 
 
Reject if 
 
a) two white retro-reflectors are not fitted at the  same height at the front on each side of and equid istant 
from the longitudinal centre line, or 
 
b) a retro-reflector is so placed that the portion of its reflective surface furthest from the longitu dinal 
centre line of the vehicle is further than 400 mm f rom the outer edge of the widest portion of the veh icle. 
 
5.59.3 Side retro-reflectors 
 
Reject if, for any vehicle (except a bus or a minib us) longer than 7 m, and for a school bus, 
 
a) there is no side retro-reflector within 3 m of t he front, or 
 
b) there is no side retro-reflector within 1 m of t he rear, or 
 
c) any two successive side retro-reflectors are mor e than 3,6 m apart. 
NOTE Side retro-reflectors need not be fitted to 
a) a bus or minibus that is not a school bus, inclu ding such a bus or minibus which forms part of a 
combination of motor vehicles, and 
b) a motor car that is the drawing vehicle of a com bination of motor vehicles. 
 
5.59.4 Rear retro-reflectors 
 
Reject if 
 
a) at least one red retro-reflector is not fitted o n each side of the longitudinal centre line of the vehicle, or 
 
 
 
 
 
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SZNS 007:2011   
b) the outer edge of the outermost retro-reflector is more than 400 mm from the outer edge of the moto r 
vehicle or trailer, or 
 
c) any motor cycle/tricycle/quadrucycle without sid e car or any motor tricycle with only one wheel at the 
rear does not have one retro-reflector that complie s with 5.60.1 fitted on the rear. 
 
5.60 Use of retro-reflective material 
 
5.60.1 Rear warning sign (chevron) 
 
Reject if 
 
a) a motor vehicle of GVM exceeding 3 500 kg or a t railer is not fitted with a rear warning sign as 
prescribed in the relevant national legislation, or  
 
b) the warning sign is not facing squarely to the r ear, and within 15° of the upright position, or 
 
c) the lower edge of the warning sign is more than 1,1 m from ground level (except that, if compliance  with 
this provision is not possible, the sign shall be f itted as close to this height as possible), or 
 
d) the warning sign is not clean and in good condit ion or is obscured by anything that will render it 
ineffective, or 
 
e) the outer edges of the warning sign are more tha n 400 mm from the outer edges of the vehicle,or 
 
f) a trailer of GVM not exceeding 3 500 kg has no c hevron or does not have at least seven retro- refle ctors 
fitted in place of the chevron, or 
 
g) a motor vehicle, other than those mentioned in ( f), of which the design or construction does not al low a 
modified chevron to be fitted, does not have at lea st eleven retro-reflectors fitted in place of the c hevron. 
 
5.60.2 Side and rear marking strips and contour mar kings 
 
5.60.2.1  Reject if 
 
a) a goods vehicle of which the gross vehicle mass exceeds 10 000 kg and first registered on or after 1 July 
1999, is not fitted with side and rear marking stri ps or contour markings that comply with SANS 20114,  
or 
 
b) a goods vehicle of which the gross vehicle mass exceeds 10 000 kg and first registered before 
1 July 1999, is not fitted with side and rear marki ng strips or contour markings that comply with 
SANS 20114 after 31 December 2000, or 
 
c) a goods vehicle with a length of more than 7 m i s not fitted with contour markings as specified in 
the relevant national legislation , or 
 
d) any trailer is not fitted with side and rear con tour markings, or 
 
e) any midibus or bus is not fitted with side and r ear contour markings, or 
 
f) a minibus operating in terms of an operating lic ence issued in accordance with the provisions of 
the relevant national legislation  is not fitted wi th contour markings, or 
 
 
 
 
 
60                ©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved  
SZNS 007:2011  g) contour markings do not comply with SANS 20114. 
 
NOTE Contour markings that bear an "E" mark may be deeme d to comply with SANS 20114.  
 
5.60.2.2  Where the sides and rear marking strips or contour  markings are fitted, reject if the strips 
or contour markings 
 
a) do not bear a certification mark, or 
 
b) are not at least 50 mm wide, or 
 
c) do not identify at least 80% of both the length and width of the vehicle, or 
 
d) are non-continuous and the distance between sing le elements exceeds half of the length of the 
shortest element, or 
 
e) are less than 250 mm and more than 1 500 mm abov e the ground, except that in the case where this is  
not technically possible, a maximum height of 2,1 m  is permissible provided that this limitation shall  not 
apply to any vertical markings or to those horizont al markings that outline the top of the motor vehic le, or 
 
f) do not identify as closely as possible the overa ll shape of the vehicle to the side and rear, or 
 
g) are not yellow. 
 
5.60.2.3  Where retro-reflective advertising, consisting of retro-reflective logos, distinctive markings or 
letters or characters, is used in conjunction with contour marking, excluding marking strips, reject i f it 
impairs the effectiveness of the contour marking. 
5.61 Flasher-type direction indicators 
NOTE Not applicable to motor cycles/tricycles/quadr ucycles first registered before 1 July 1976, or any  
vehicle over 40 years old. 
Reject if a direction indicator 
a) is damaged, missing or not securely fitted, or 
b) is not functioning correctly, or 
c) is obscured or is not visible from the rear of t he vehicle within an angle of 15° inside and 45° ou tside 
or is not visible from the front within an angle of  45° outside of a line that is parallel to the long itudinal 
centre line of the vehicle and that passes through the centre of the illuminated area of the indicator , or 
d) in the case of a goods vehicle of gross vehicle mass exceeding 3 500 kg and first registered after 
15 July 1988, excluding a vehicle manufactured befo re this date and first registered after this date, the 
front and rear flashing indicators are not visible from the specified angles in the horizontal plane a s given 
below and in figure 24: 
1) inwards 45°; and 
2) outwards 80°, or 
(Figure 24 shows how the angles can be measured.) 
e) is not positioned as near as possible to, but wi thin 500 mm of, the outer edge of the front or rear  (as 
applicable) of the vehicle, or 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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f) is such that the driver does not have a visible or an audible warning that the indicator is 
operating, or 
g) does not have a light intensity exceeding that o f any other lamp within 150 mm, or 
h) does not have a light intensity that it is clear ly visible in normal daylight at a distance of not less 
than 30 m to a person of normal eyesight, or 
i) is not fitted within a height above the ground a s specified in SANS 1046, or 
j) does not emit a white, a yellow or an amber ligh t to the front and a yellow, an amber or a red ligh t to 
the rear, except that, for vehicles registered afte r 15 July 1988, excluding vehicles originally 
manufactured before this date and first registered after this date, reject if the rear flashing indica tors do 
not emit yellow or amber light, or 
k) in the case of vehicles first registered on or a fter 1 January 1986, is not fitted with a separate 
switch that operates all the direction indicators s imultaneously.  
 
 
 
5.62 Safety design 
 
Reject if equipment that was fitted (or required to  be fitted) to the vehicle when it was new has been  
removed or degraded, except in cases where 
 
a) its removal or degradation does not diminish the  safety of the vehicle, or 
 
b) the vehicle has been modified for use in an appl ication where such equipment was incompatible with 
the vehicle's application. 
 
 
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5.63 Twist-locks for securing containers 
 
Reject if, in the case of vehicles fitted with twis t-locks, the twist-locks are not in good working or der. 
 
5.64 General safety 
 
Reject if there is any component part on the vehicl e or in the engine compartment that has no direct 
relation to safety but that is loose to the extent that it is likely 
 
a) to fall from the vehicle and endanger other road  users, or 
 
b) to come into contact with moving engine parts. 
 
6 Additional rejection criteria for buses 
 
6.1 General 
 
Buses shall be examined and tested (where relevant)  with regard to each relevant provision of this 
standard. Buses shall be deemed roadworthy in the a bsence of any listed defect; otherwise they shall b e 
rejected as indicated. 
 
6.2 Side roofs 
 
Reject if 
 
a) the sides of the passenger compartment are not e nclosed to a height of at least 600 mm above 
floor level, with material that is durable and weat herproof, or 
 
b) the roof is not weatherproof.  
 
6.3 Entrances and exits 
 
Reject, excluding in the case of an existing minibu s, an M 2 minibus, an M 2 and M 3 midibus, a bus or  
the separate compartment of a motor vehicle in whic h prisoners are conveyed if 
 
a) at least one side passenger entrance to the main  passenger compartment is not provided on the left side, 
or 
 
b) there is any entrance for persons, other than th e driver, on the right-hand side of the longitudina l centre 
line of a bus, or 
 
NOTE In the case of imported vehicles, if there is any door on the right-hand side of the longitudinal  
centre line of the vehicles that can be used as an entrance, the door shall be permanently locked by m eans 
other than a key. 
 
c) in the case of a single-deck bus and the lower d eck of a double-deck bus, there is not at least one  
emergency exit 
 
1) in the rear, or 
 
2) on each side towards the rear, unless, in the ca se of a single-deck bus, an emergency exit is fitte d in the 
roof in place of the exit required on the left side , or 
 
 
 
 
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d) in the case of the upper deck of a double-deck b us, there is not at least one emergency exit 
 
1) in the rear, or 
 
2) on each side and in the roof, or 
 
e) any emergency exit 
 
1) has dimensions of less than 800 mm × 400 mm or 7 00 mm × 500 mm, or 
 
2) cannot be opened, or pushed out, or knocked out from both inside and outside, or 
 
3) is designed to open inwards, or 
 
4) is so positioned that passengers have to pass th rough a goods compartment, or 
 
f) every entrance to, or exit from, a bus is not fi tted with a door or other effective barrier, or 
 
g) in the case of a bus that has been converted fro m a goods vehicle, openings of at least 
800 mm × 400 mm or 700 mm × 500 mm are not provided  in the absence of the entrances and 
exits referred to above, or 
 
h) if the bus does not comply with the emergency ex it requirements of SANS 20036, SANS 20052 
and SANS 20117 
 
6.4 Seats 
 
NOTE See also 6.11. 
 
Reject if, subject to a tolerance of 10 mm per seat , 
 
a) any seat backrest is of height less than 350 mm,  measured from seat level to the highest point, or 
 
b) the gap between the backrest and the seat exceed s 200 mm, or 
 
c) the width of a backrest is less than 340 mm, mea sured at the widest point, or 
 
d) the height of any seat from the floor or the hei ght from the footrest of such seat to seat level is  less than 
250 mm, except in the case of a seat positioned ove r a wheel arch, where no limit applies, or 
 
e) the depth of any seat from the front of the seat  to the front of the backrest is less than 340 mm, or 
 
f) the number of seated passengers recorded in the documentation (and on the licence disc) exceeds the  
number that can be seated when the available seatin g has been calculated at a rate of 400 mm per perso n, 
measured at the widest point of the seat, or 
 
g) where seats face in the same direction, the hori zontal distance between the front of the backrests of any 
such seat and the back of the backrest of the seat in front is less than 570 mm at seat level, or 
 
h) where a seat faces a partition or similar obstru ction, the horizontal distance between the front of  the 
backrest and the partition or obstruction is less t han 570 mm at seat level, or 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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i) where seats face one another, the horizontal dis tance between the backrests is less than 1 200 mm a t 
seat level, or 
 
j) where a seat faces an entrance or has one side o pposite an entrance, a rail or partition is not pro vided 
between the seat and the entrance, or 
 
k) any seat is not securely fixed, or 
 
l) the driver's seat is not adjustable and does not  have a partition behind it. 
 
NOTE 1 The tolerance of 10 mm per person for item (f) abov e is in respect of the total dimension for a row of  
seats, because a row of seats is deemed to be one s eat. 
 
NOTE 2 Subclause 6.11 allows smaller seats in school buses  registered before 1 April 1991.  
 
6.5 Windows and windscreens 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) unless the bus has forced ventilation, every alt ernate window on each side is not capable of 
being opened, or 
 
b) any window pane, windscreen or transparent parti tion is not in a sound, unbroken and clear 
condition, or 
 
c) a window is capable of being opened in such a ma nner that a seated passenger is able to put 
his/her elbow out of the window. 
 
6.6 Number of standings passengers 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) the number of standing passengers, N standing , recorded in the documentation exceeds that determ ined 
by the following: 
 
 
where 
 
A is the total clear floor space, in square metres; 
 
B is the floor space where the roof height is less t han 1,75 m plus the floor space of any 
cross-passageway, in square metres; 
 
C is 0,125 m2 (the clear floor space, in square metr es, that shall be available for each 
standing passenger), or 
 
b) the sum of the number determined above, the numb er of seated passengers and the driver multiplied b y 
68 kg plus the tare (T) of the vehicle exceeds the permissible maximum vehicle mass (V), or 
 
c) there are insufficient hand straps, handrails or  grab handles for the permitted number of standing 
passengers. 
 
 
 
 
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6.7 Stairs 
 
Reject if the stairs to the upper deck of a double- deck bus do not have handrails on each side and als o a 
partition or screen on each side of the stairs to p revent any person from slipping off any step. 
 
6.8 Passageways 
 
Reject if, in the case of a midibus or bus, first r egistered after 1 January 2006, 
 
a) there is no unimpeded longitudinal passageway, o r 
 
b) there is no cross-passageway from each entrance of the bus to the longitudinal passageway, or 
 
c) such passageways are less than 
 
1) 300 mm wide from floor to seat level, and 
 
2) 350 mm wide above any armrests or at a height of  900 mm above floor level.  
 
6.9  Number of passengers that may be carried 
 
NOTE See also 6.12.  
 
Reject if the permitted number of persons recorded in the documentation (and on the licence disc) exce eds 
the number of persons (including the driver) obtain ed by taking the lesser of the totals obtained in ( a) and 
(d) below: 
 
a) calculation 
 
1) the number of passengers that may be carried 
 
 where 
 
M is the minimum mass, i.e. the smallest value of t he following three values: 
 
i)  the manufacturer's gross vehicle mass; 
 
ii)     the permissible maximum vehicle mass; and 
 
iii)  the legal limit given in the relevant national legi slation . 
 
L is the luggage mass, and shall take into account the following: 
 
i) luggage distribution: 100 kg/m ; and 
ii) roof rack distribution: 75 kg/m2; 
 
T is the unladen mass of the vehicle , 
 
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2) body builders are required to have available a lo ading calculation and passenger seating/standing 
plan to verify the actual axle load distribution. I f there is any doubt about the load distribution or  
calculations the operator should obtain this inform ation from the body builder or the vehicle test 
station should carry out the calculation or require  submission of the calculation, and 
 
3) the axle load shall not exceed the minimum value  of the manufacturer's gross axle load, the 
permissible maximum axle load and the legal axle lo ad limit given in the relevant national legislation , 
and 
 
b) establish the number of seats in accordance with  the method given in 6.4(f), and 
 
c) when relevant, establish the number of standing passengers in accordance with 6.7, and 
 
d) when relevant, add the number of seated persons to the number of standing persons, to obtain the to tal 
number of persons that may be carried. 
 
NOTE In cases of doubt, verify the tare and assess the p ermissible maximum vehicle mass, paying particular 
attention to the tyres.  
 
6.10 Seating on school buses registered before 1 Ap ril 1991 
 
Reject if: 
 
a) any seat backrest is of height less than 300 mm,  measured from seat level to the highest point, or 
 
b) the gap between the backrest and the seat exceed s 75 mm, or 
 
c) the width of a backrest is less than 330 mm, mea sured at the widest point, or 
 
d) the height of any seat from the floor or the hei ght from the footrest of such seat to seat level is  less than 
300 mm or more than 460 mm, or 
 
e) the depth of any seat from the front of the seat  to the front of the backrest is less than 300 mm, or 
 
f) the number of seated passengers recorded in the documentation (and on the licence disc) exceeds the  
number that can be seated when the available seatin g has been calculated at a rate of 330 mm per perso n, 
measured at the widest point of the seat, or 
 
g) where seats face in the same direction, the hori zontal distance between the backrests of any two su ch 
seats is less than 530 mm at seat level, or 
 
h) where a seat faces a partition or similar obstru ction, the horizontal distance between the backrest  and 
the partition or obstruction is less than 530 mm at  seat level, or 
 
i) where seats face one another, the horizontal dis tance between the backrests is less than 1 060 mm a t 
seat level, or 
 
j) any seat is not securely fixed 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved              67 
 
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6.11 Number of persons that may be carried on a sch ool bus registered before 1 April 
1991 
 
Reject if the permitted number of persons recorded in the documentation (and on the licence disc) exce eds 
the number of persons (including the driver) obtain ed by taking the lesser of the totals obtained in ( a) and 
(b) below: 
 
a) calculation 
 
1) the number of passengers that may be carried 
 
 
where 
 
M is the minimum mass, i.e. the smallest value of t he following three values: 
 
iv)  the manufacturer's gross vehicle mass; 
 
v)     the permissible maximum vehicle mass; and 
 
vi)  the legal limit given in the relevant national legi slation . 
 
L is the luggage mass, and shall take into account the following: 
 
i) luggage distribution: 100 kg/m ; and 
ii) roof rack distribution: 75 kg/m2; 
 
T is the unladen mass of the vehicle , 
 
2) body builders are required to have available a l oading calculation and passenger seating/standing p lan 
to verify the actual axle load distribution. If the re is any doubt about the load distribution or calc ulations 
the operator should obtain this information from th e body builder or the vehicle test station should c arry 
out the calculation or require submission of the ca lculation, and 
 
3) the axle load shall not exceed the minimum value  of the manufacturer's gross axle load, the 
permissible maximum axle load and the legal axle lo ad limit given in the relevant national legislation , 
and 
 
b) establish the number of seats in accordance with  the method given in 6.10(f). 
 
7 Inspection record for buses 
 
Record the results of the following additional insp ections in the inspection record: 
 
a) sides and roof; 
b) entrances and exits; 
c) seats; 
d) windows and windscreen ; 
 
 
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e) tilt angle: a copy of the certificate; 
 
f) number of standing passengers; 
 
g) stairs; 
 
h) passageways; 
 
i) number of persons that may be carried; 
 
j) seating on school buses registered before 1 Apri l 1991; and 
 
k) number of persons that may be carried on a schoo l bus registered before 1 April 1991. 
 
8 Additional rejection criteria for minibuses 
8.1 General 
Minibuses shall be examined and tested (where relev ant) with regard to each relevant provision of this  
standard. The minibuses shall be deemed roadworthy in the absence of any listed defect; otherwise they  
shall be rejected as indicated.  
 
8.2 Sides and roof 
Reject if: 
a) the sides of the passenger compartment are not e nclosed to a height of at least 600 mm above floor 
level, with material that is durable and weatherpro of, or 
 
b) the roof is not weatherproof. 
 
8.3 Entrances and exits 
 
Reject if: 
a) at least one side passenger entrance to the main  passenger compartment is not provided on the left side, 
or 
b) there is any entrance for persons, other than th e driver, on the right-hand side of the longitudina l centre 
line of a minibus, or 
NOTE In the case of imported vehicles, if there is any d oor on the right-hand side of the longitudinal cent re line of 
the vehicles which can be used as an entrance, the door shall be permanently locked by means other tha n a key.  
c) an emergency exit is not provided on the right s ide or in the rear, unless a door which is accessib le to 
passengers is fitted for use by the driver, or 
d) any emergency exit 
1) has dimensions of less than 800 mm × 400 mm or 7 00 mm × 500 mm, or 
2) cannot be opened, or pushed out, or knocked out from both inside and outside, or 
3) is designed to open inwards, or 
4) is so positioned that passengers have to pass th rough a goods compartment, or 
 
 
 
 
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SZNS 007:2011   
e) every entrance to, or exit from, a minibus is no t fitted with a door or other effective barrier, or  
f) in the case of a minibus that has been converted  from a goods vehicle, openings of at least 800 mm × 
400 mm or 700 mm × 500 mm are not provided in the a bsence of entrances and exits referred to above, or  
g) if the minibus does not comply with the emergenc y exit requirements of SANS 20036, SANS 20052 
and SANS 20117. 
NOTE 1 Escape hatches, knock-out windows or knock-out pane ls are regarded as emergency exits.  
NOTE 2 This provision does not apply to a minibus or the s eparate compartment of a motor vehicle in which 
prisoners are conveyed.  
8.4 Seats 
Reject if, subject to a tolerance of 10 mm, 
a) any seat backrest is of height less than 350 mm,  measured from seat level to the highest point, 
or 
b) the gap between the backrest and the seat exceed s 200 mm, or 
c) the width of a backrest is less than 340 mm, mea sured at the widest point, or 
d) the height of any seat from the floor or the hei ght from the footrest of such seat to seat level is  less than 
250 mm, except in the case of a seat positioned ove r a wheel arch, where no limit applies, or 
e) the depth of any seat from the front of the seat  to the front of the backrest is less than 340 mm, or 
f) the number of seated passengers recorded in the documentation (and on the licence disc) exceeds the  
number that can be seated when the available seatin g has been calculated at a rateof 380 mm per person , 
measured at the widest point of the seat, with the doors closed, or 
g) where seats face in the same direction, the hori zontal distance between the front of the backrests of any 
such seat and the back of the backrest of the seat in front is less than 570 mm at seat level, or 
h) where a seat faces a partition or similar obstru ction, the horizontal distance between the front of  the 
backrest and the partition or obstruction is less t han 570 mm at seat level, or 
i) where seats face one another, the horizontal dis tance between the backrests is less than 
1 200 mm at seat level, or 
j) any seat is not securely fixed. 
NOTE The tolerance of 10 mm for item (f) above is in res pect of the total dimension for a row of seats, bec ause a 
row of seats is deemed to be one seat.  
8.5 Windows and windscreens 
Reject if: 
a) unless the minibus has forced ventilation, every  alternate window on each side is not capable of be ing 
opened, or 
b) any window pane, windscreen or transparent parti tion is not in a sound, unbroken and clear conditio n. 
 
 
 
 
70                ©SWASA 2011 – All rights rese rved 
 
SZNS 007:2011  8.6 Number of persons that may be carried 
 
Reject if the permitted number of persons recorded in the documentation (and on the licence disc) 
exceeds the number of persons (including the driver ) obtained in (a) and (b) below: 
 
a) calculation 
 
1) the number of passengers that may be carried 
 
 where, 
 
M is the minimum mass, i.e. the smallest value of t he following three values: 
 
i)  the manufacturer's gross vehicle mass; 
 
ii)     the permissible maximum vehicle mass; and 
 
iii)  the legal limit given in the relevant national legi slation. 
 
L is the luggage mass, and shall take into account the following: 
 
i) luggage distribution: 100 kg/m ; and 
ii) roof rack distribution: 75 kg/m2; 
 
T is the unladen mass of the vehicle , 
 
2) body builders are required to have available a l oading calculation and passenger seating/standing p lan 
to verify the actual axle load distribution. If the re is any doubt on the load distribution or calcula tions 
the operator should obtain this information from th e body builder or the vehicle test station should c arry 
out the calculation or require submission of the ca lculation, and 
3) the axle load shall not exceed the minimum value  of the manufacturer’s gross axle load, the 
permissible maximum axle load and the legal axle lo ad limit given in the relevant national legislation , 
and 
b) establish the number of seats in accordance with  the method given in 8.4(f). 
NOTE In cases of doubt, verify the tare and assess the p ermissible maximum vehicle mass, paying particular 
attention to the tyres.  
9 Inspection record for minibuses 
Record the results of the following additional insp ections in the inspection record: 
a) sides and roof; 
b) entrances and exits; 
c) seats; 
d) windows and windscreen; and 
e) number of persons that may be carried. 
 
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SZNS 007:2011   
Annex A 
(informative) 
 
Step-by-step procedure to establish the permissible  loadings and to check the information 
plates for correctness 
 
A.1 Buses, minibuses, trucks and truck-tractors 
A.1.1  Establish the manufacturer’s GVM/BVM from the vehi cle data sheet. 
A.1.2  Establish the manufacturer’s GCM/BKM from the vehi cle data sheet. 
A.1.3  Establish the engine power in kilowatts (P/D) from  the manufacturer’s engine chart. 
A.1.4  Establish the manufacturer’s front axle rating (GA /BA) or (GAU/BAE) from the vehicle data 
sheet. 
A.1.5  Establish the manufacturer’s rear axle rating (GA/ BA) or (GAU/BAE) from the vehicle data 
sheet. 
A.1.6  Establish the front and rear tyre loadings and the  tyre size from the vehicle data sheet and 
the tyre ratings from SANS 1550-1. 
A.1.7  Establish the maximum legal front axle massload (s ee the relevant national legislation (see 
foreword)). 
A.1.8  Establish the maximum legal rear axle massload (se e the relevant national legislation (see 
foreword)) and the axle unit massload (see the rele vant national legislation). 
A.1.9  Establish the maximum group mass (see the relevant  national legislation), 
i.e. from the first axle to the last axle from the vehicle data sheet. 
A.1.10  Determine the maximum permissible front axle massl oad (A) or (AU/AE) by using the 
lowest mass of A.1.4 to A.1.6 and A.1.7. 
A.1.11  Determine the maximum permissible rear axle masslo ad (A) or (AU/AE) by using the 
lowest mass of A.1.5 to A.1.6 and A.1.9. 
A.1.12  Determine the maximum permissible vehicle mass (V) . Add step A.1.10 and A.1.11 then 
compare with steps A.1.1 and A.1.9. Record the lowe st mass. 
A.1.13  Determine the maximum permissible combination mass  in terms of traction (see the 
relevant national legislation). Multiply step A.1.1 1 by 5. 
A.1.14  Determine the maximum permissible combination mass  in terms of the power/mass ratio 
(see the relevant national legislation). Multiply s tep A.1.3 by 240. 
A.1.15  Determine the maximum permissible combination mass  in terms of the manufacturer’s 
rating (see the relevant national legislation). 
A.1.16  Determine the maximum permissible drawing vehicle mass (D/T). Record the lowest mass 
of steps A.1.2, A.1.13 and A.1.14 (see the relevant  national legislation ). 
NOTE For a minibus or goods vehicle the GVM of which doe s not exceed 3 500 kg and registered before 1 Janua ry 
1989, the minimum legal mass information requiremen t is a T and V plate while any other vehicle requir es a 
manufacturer’s plate as discussed in the previous s teps.  
 
 
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A.2 Semi-trailers 
 
A.2.1  Establish the manufacturer’s GVM/BVM from the vehi cle data sheet. 
 
A.2.2 Establish the manufacturer’s kingpin rating G KM/BSM from the vehicle data sheet. 
 
A.2.3  Establish the manufacturer’s rear axle rating (GA/ BA or GAU/BAE) from the vehicle data 
sheet. 
 
A.2.4  Establish the rear tyre loadings. Use the tyre rat ings from SANS 1550-1. 
 
A.2.5  Establish the maximum legal rear axle unit massloa d (see the relevant national legislation). 
 
A.2.6  Determine the permissible kingpin massload (KM). U se the manufacturer’s GKM/BSM or 
AU/AE unless otherwise specified. Compare with A.2. 3, A.2.4 and A.2.5 and record the lowest 
mass. It is a legal requirement for the GKM, but no t necessarily the V mass, to appear on a plate for 
a semi-trailer. 
 
A.3 Tractors 
 
A.3.1  Establish the engine power in kilowatts (P/D) from  the manufacturer’s engine specification. 
 
A.3.2  Establish the manufacturer’s GCM/BKM from the manu facturer’s specification. 
 
A.3.3  Establish the maximum driving axle(s) massload(s) in terms of the manufacturer’s 
specification. In the case of all-wheel-drive tract ors, include the massload of all the driving axles.  
 
A.3.4  Establish the maximum tyre loadings of the tyres o n all driving axles (see the load tables in SANS 
1550-6). 
 
A.3.5  Establish the maximum legal axle massloads of all the driving axles in terms of the relevant 
national legislation. 
 
A.3.6  Establish the maximum permissible drawing vehicle mass by recording the lowest mass of steps 
A.3.3, A.3.4 and A.3.5. 
 
A.4 Light passenger vehicles 
 
The relevant national legislation does not require information plates on light passenger vehicles. 
Information plates are, however, required on light passenger vehicles under the compulsory vehicle 
specification for M1 vehicles. It is worth noting t hat the abbreviations GVM/BVM, GA/BA, GAU/BAE 
and GCM/BKM are not required in this specification on condition that the figures are provided in the 
following sequence: 
a) gross vehicle mass; 
b) gross combination mass; 
c) gross axle mass front; and 
d) gross axle mass rear. 
 
 
 
 
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Bibliography 
 
SANS 10181,  The measurement of noise emitted by road vehicles when stationary. Vehicle examiner's 
handbook. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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ICS 43.020 
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