NEW ZIM VEHICLE REGULATIONS TO APPLY FROM 1ST JUNE 2011

[bryan chitty]

WILD ZAMBEZI reported last October on a new Government Statutory Instrument (No 154) laying down requirements for vehicles on Zimbabwe's roads.  The regulations largely cover roadworthiness, but also stipulate that every vehicle should carry a fire extinguisher, 2 x red warning triangles, a serviceable spare wheel, an efficient jack and a wheel spanner capable of undoing the vehicle’s wheel nuts

The regulations were due to come into effect in December last year, but were subsequenty delayed when Motor Industry representatives intervened, claiming that suppliers could not produce enough of the required products given such short notice

 

The date for these new regulations to apply is now 1st June 2011.

 

Here are some of the requirements (and a rough idea of costs if purchasing in Zimbabwe): 

   
Two Breakdown Triangles : Mandatory: two reflective breakdown triangles per vehicle.   A pair is also required for each trailer.  These must be placed one in front and one at the rear of a vehicle (30 to 50m) when it is stationery on any road at a place not designated for stopping. The triangles should be sturdy and of good quality. However, they are not required to have a Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ) logo.  (Expect to pay around US$10-$12 a pair)

A Fire Extinguisher: All vehicles to carry an appropriate and SAZ approved fire extinguisher in the CAB of the vehicle - Light vehicles (1kg) and heavy vehicles (1,5kg).  Every fire extinguisher shall be of a type and make approved by the Standards Association of Zimbabwe, which approval shall be visibly marked on the fire extinguisher (look for the SAZ logo - see above), and secured at an easily accessible and visible position within the cab of such vehicle."  (Expect to pay around US$16 for a 1kg extinguisher with mounting bracket). 

Reflectors: White reflectors in front, red reflectors at the rear (Expect to pay around US$2 per metre for reflective tape at any Auto dealer).
Florescent Reflective Vest:  this is not mandatory, but is recommended for safety on the road at breakdown scenes, especially at night.   (Expect to pay around US$4)

 

NOTE:  there are currently no clear guidelines about the requirements for visiting (non-Zimbabwean) vehicles.  However, it is advisable for all visiting vehicles to carry the items listed above, and to ensure that the fire extinguisher has a Standards Association Approved logo from e.g. South Africa.  

Motorists and visitors should be aware that road police will be checking for these items after the 1st June 2011.