Voluntary windscreen code launched
Thatcham Research has issued a new voluntary code of practice to provide clear guidance on the recalibration of vital car safety technology during the replacement or refit of windscreens.
The ADAS Repair Group, led by Thatcham Research and including major companies active in automotive glazing replacement such as National Windscreens, Autoglass and Nationwide Crash Repair Centres, have issued the ‘ADAS Glazing Code of Practice’ aimed at addressing concerns around the level of industry knowledge relating to the recalibration of ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) technology.
The code provides a recommended set of guidelines for replacing or refitting windscreens on vehicles fitted with ADAS sensors, whilst ensuring that the safety of the vehicle owner is not compromised in any way.
The step-by-step approach to recalibration covered by the new code includes the initial identification of different ADAS technologies; best practice for ensuring full and transparent communication with the customer; and a guide to calibration options, scheduling and pricing.
‘ADAS systems have become an integral feature on cars, with motorists increasingly putting their trust in the additional layer of safety that this technology provides. It’s therefore of vital importance that drivers can retain that confidence following any sort of repair,’ said Andrew Miller, chief technology officer at Thatcham Research.
‘This voluntary code of practice now provides the added assurance of a best-practice approach, to make certain that the car is returned to its owner with exactly the same level of safety protection as when it came in for repair and where for whatever reason that’s not possible, that the customer is provided with guidance on what they need to do to have the systems recalibrated.’
Neil Atherton, sales and marketing director at Autoglass, said, ‘It’s very clear that calibrating ADAS after a windscreen replacement is vital. ADAS systems can save lives, but may not work correctly unless maintained as intended. That’s why it’s so important that the industry has come together in the creation of this new Code of Practice and why Autoglass has been pivotal in its creation.
‘The guidance is unequivocally clear and we hope it will further galvanise the aftermarket, fleet and insurance industries behind the new raft of safety technologies and their correct maintenance.
‘There’s still much to do to educate consumers about how these safety systems work and should be used if their maximum lifesaving potential is to be realised. The industry must continue to rally together – today’s announcement is a step in the right direction.’
The ‘ADAS Glazing Code of Practice’ code can be accessed here http://www.thatcham.org/files/pdf/ADAS-CoP.pdf
