News from Mercedes-Benz: Mercedes-Benz Vans is urging all van drivers in the UK to check out the facts around Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) requirements, before venturing out on the roads.
The deadline for all drivers operating an LCV over 3.5 tonnes to have completed their Driver CPC training, which is a legal necessity of 35 hours of training every five years, was 10September 2014.
Steve Bridge, Managing Director, Mercedes-Benz Vans, said, “It seems like there has been a sole focus in the industry on CPC training for truck drivers, but in reality almost 4,400 vans over 3.5 tonnes sold this year in the UK will be subject to Driver CPC legislation.
“This will also have an impact on Operator licences of mixed fleets, so it is vital that the UK van market is fully aware of the legislation. If drivers of vans over 3.5 tonnes are yet to complete, or even start their CPC training, before they drive their vehicle again they must ensure they have undertaken the 35 hours of learning.
“You can be fined up to £1,000 for driving professionally without Driver CPC, and as it would mean that technically you hold an incorrect licence, your insurance could also be void.
“However, it shouldn’t be just about ticking a box to complete the course – I believe that training for van drivers should be an enjoyable learning experience that brings everyone to a level far beyond the minimum demanded by the current legislation, or even potential future legislation.
“I have completed my Driver CPC, with course content revolving around load security, fuel economy and safety; really valuable training. I hope to see more van drivers participating in ongoing learning going forwards.”
However, the Freight Transport Association (FTA) believes that a vast majority of drivers will have completed their35 hours’ periodic training by the deadline, according to DVSA figures released last month, but still suggests that for some the dash to compliance will continue right up to today’s deadline, and even beyond.
James Firth, Head of Road Freight and Enforcement Policy from the FTA, said, “The logistics industry is not going to grind to a halt as some have suggested – the figures indicate that most drivers will have got it done. But the deadline highlights a more fundamental problem of driver supply in the future. The cost of getting your HGV licence, the cost to companies of insuring young drivers, the lack of facilities for drivers on the road network and a generally negative image of the profession are all barriers to young people recognising the logistics industry for what it really is: a challenging and rewarding sector, which uses cutting edge technology to solve problems on a daily basis to keep the economic heartbeat of the UK strong and uninterrupted.”
