Regulators to Target Operator and HGV/PCV Licence Violations

Fleet operators that do not maintain full compliance with the law could soon find themselves in trouble with regulators, according to a recent report from Commercial Fleet. The online magazine says British traffic commissioners will be targeting operators of HGVs, buses and coaches in the coming months to make sure the law is being followed. Eight new traffic commissioners have been appointed by the government to oversee registration and operation of HGVs, PCVs and local buses.

It is clear that the commissioners will be looking at more than just HGV/PCV licence violations among drivers. They will also be looking at operators as well. For example, the Commissioner in Scotland will be looking at local taxis. The broad range of powers given to the commissioners will allow them to look into nearly every aspect of haulage and transport operations from a licencing standpoint.

One of the things being recommended to haulage companies is the adoption of a simple safety plan. Such a safety plan would apply as much to vans as to tipper trucks and articulated lorries. According to senior traffic commissioner Beverly Bell, implementing and following through on a simple safety plan goes a long way toward making sure a company remains in compliance at all times. Bell told Commercial Fleet that the little things covered by a safety programme could add up to insurance savings, fewer accidents and better health and well-being among drivers.

Traffic commissioners are appointed until age 65 and work under the Office of the Traffic Commissioner (OTC). In turn, the OTC works with Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) in their enforcement efforts. The OTC is staffed by DVSA employees.

Practical Implications

The practical consequences of the new OTC efforts will have little effect on haulage and transport companies already in compliance with the law. However, for those not fully complying with the law, the announcement should be sufficient motivation to get one’s house in order. There is no point risking trouble by not complying with all of the requirements associated with holding an operator’s licence.

As for HGV and PCV licence holders, their most pressing concern is to make sure they know and understand the law as it relates to their particular type of work. Both kinds of drivers should now be CPC trained and certified across-the-board. CPC certification is required once per five-year period in order to continue driving professionally.

The HGV Training Centre offers CPC training on a regular schedule. We can train individual drivers or groups of drivers working for the same company. Contact us for information about training for your company.

If you are interested in a career as a professional lorry or bus driver, we can help with that as well. We offer comprehensive HGV and PCV licence training at dozens of locations around the UK. Our training prepares you to pass the necessary tests the first time you take them, getting you ready to look for work in a matter of weeks.

Sources:

Commercial Fleet – https://www.commercialfleet.org/legal/regulators-take-on-negligent-fleets