Michelin launches approval scheme for off-road tyre repairs

Michelin has joined forces with tyre repair materials and equipment specialist Rema Tip Top to introduce a repair accreditation and guarantee scheme for off-road tyres.

Central to the scheme are guidelines on the maximum size of repair and limits the permissible number of damaged cords and under layers depending on the size of the tyre. It also lays down training and equipment levels for tyre repair companies participating in scheme and will audit them every year.

Chris Logan, commercial director in UK and Ireland for Michelin's earthmoving and industrial tyres, said there is much anecdotal evidence of poor repairs being carried out - some of which shouldn't have be undertaken in the first place.

He said poorly repaired tyres pose a health and safety risk, as well as increasing the likelihood of future breakdowns and preventing the carcass being remoulded.

"There are national standards for repairing on-highway tyres, but not for off-road and as we are the industry standard for these products, we have stepped in to provide a standard for their repair," said Logan.

While a big repair can cost up to £600, he said the scheme would help users maximise health and safety, while minimising whole-life tyre costs and the risk of unscheduled downtime.

Each repair carries a marker which can identify the company and individuals that carried out the work. The work is guaranteed by the repairer to meet the laid-down standard, which is backed by Michelin.

Currently, there are three approved repairers: OTR Tyres' Alfreton depot; Earthmover Tyres in Wakefield; and Red Path Tyres in the Scottish boarders.

Logan said other repairers willing to meet the standards could apply. He said he was looking for UK-wide coverage, but stressed that he wasn't looking for a particular number or geographic spread of approved repairers.