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Most drivers trained in the use of digital tachos will have been advised that the driver's activity on the VU will automatically default to 'other work' when the vehicle stops moving.

Since September 2007, new digital tachos are supplied with an option that changes the driver and co-driver activity mode default setting when the ignition is switched off. The activity for the driver will still default to 'other work' when the vehicle stops moving, but as soon as the ignition is switched  off, the tacho will return to the programmed default setting. Several vehicle manufacturers (including Mercedes-Benz and MAN) have opted to change this default setting to rest/break when the ignition is off.

If this is the case, the driver, if continuing to work after the ignition is switched off, must remember to change the mode to other work or to record a POA if the card is left in the equipment. If drivers are unaware of these changes, they could be technically working while recording a break - causing a rule infringement. It is possible for the operator to have the default setting re-programmed whether the ignition is on or off. This can be carried out by an authorised tachograph workshop in around 15 minutes.