Revision to the Driver CPC directive have your say

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DVSA’s revision to the Driver CPC directive is here. It’s time to have your say!

The DVSA have released a survey regarding the revision to the Driver CPC directive. Interestingly, they have already provided top line proposals for us to comment on. However, there is an opportunity to air your views and thoughts via email if you wish. This will provided to you at the end of the survey.

Top line proposals to periodic training, are to:

Prevent a repeat of training courses during a periodic training cycle
Include road safety in at least one periodic training session
Allow other elements of training to be included, such as disability awareness, dangerous goods transportation and animal transportation

Nothing too controversial here, yet they haven’t addressed issues concerning Driver CPC trainers and drivers alike specifically regarding timings…..read on.

Here’s my thoughts on the current proposals

Prevent a repeat of training courses during a periodic training cycle – This doesn’t include remedial training but suffice to say this decision is currently easily manageable by between training provider, employee and employer
Include road safety in at least one periodic training session – Of course it’s a good idea but I haven’t met any provider who doesn’t already offer a H&S module/course. Plus I haven’t met any driver who wouldn’t want to have training in H&S
Allow other elements of training to be included, such as disability awareness, dangerous goods transportation and animal transportation – All elements related to transport should be included in the syllabus.

Timings and the 35/7 hour rule

I am surprised to see there is no mention on timings. In my opinion, the 35/7 hour rule, is a major issue and needs to be addressed. The question is, how do we ensure the drivers (and trainers) get the most out of Driver CPC and have taken in and digested the training provided?

Current thinking is to make a driver sit in class room for 7 hours and the trainer use questions, quizes and discussions to satisfy understanding. I have provided Driver CPC to delegates who have already had training in the subject matter previously taught and I can say (from experience) some drivers have only been able to demonstrate little or (in fact) no understanding of said subject matter from the previous session. This is because it is currently perfectly feasible to physically be present in a classroom, yet mentally not.

A driver can be present in the class room for 7 hours and simply choose not to engage. There’s not much a trainer can do about it. Obviously, I’d like to think non of my delegates have fallen into this bracket but I can’t say for sure. Further more, there’s no way to measure how successful Driver CPC is or even if it’s working at all.

The Solution

Have in place a multiple choice test at the end of the course, simple! This does beg the question, would drivers prefer to sit for 7 hours or take a small test at the end? Even if the drivers did opt for the 7 hours (which I doubt), this also flies in the face of current understanding of the learning method.

We take a test at the end of our GCSEs (O levels in my day!), we take a test at the end of our B class driving instruction, we take a test at the end of our Class 1/2, we take a test to become a Transport Manager. Ok you get the point, we take tests to demonstrate we have understood the information being taught.

If the only reason for not testing at the end of Driver CPC is because the perceived notion is drivers won’t like it, then this is not only a huge assumption, it’s patronising and unreasonable relative to current understanding in the learning process.

The other great advantage to having a test in place, it would eradicate rogue training providers finishing early for the day. It just wouldn’t be a problem anymore and thus ensuring drivers will receive the full training they have paid for and deserve.

There are details like, management process, what happens if a driver doesn’t pass etc. However, these are just detail which are easily worked out. In case you’re wondering, I do have the complete solution but for reasons of blog interest and general interest I shall keep this post to the point.

Now is the time to look at how Driver CPC works in more detail and the opportunity to use logic to make DCPC more workable. Have your say in the Driver CPC directive review NOW.

How do I have my say?

Go here to complete the Driver CPC directive survey.

If you need any advice regarding Driver CPC training or would like to become an Driver CPC Affiliate Consortium Member, then just get in touch. We’re here to share the knowledge!

Driver CPC Training – What’s the point?

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Driver CPC Training – What’s the point?

Driver CPC Training – What’s the point? Is a question I get asked all the time by drivers. Well, there a many great reasons for Driver CPC Training. I’m now into my 7th year of Driver CPC training and running a Driver CPC Consortium and I’m shocked as to how many professional drivers out there have gaps in their basic ‘need to know’ knowledge. And interestingly, I’m constantly asked “Driver CPC training, what’s the point? Aside from the fact that all HGV drivers should know their EU Drivers Hours, Working Time (RTD), Driver walk round checks & Defect reporting/rectification processes and how to use a Tachograph properly, the fact is many still don’t.

So here’s my eleven reason why taking Driver CPC training can only be beneficial for the professional driver.

It will help to improve your understanding of legislation
It’s always beneficial to undertake refresher training
You may learn something new
It’s a chance to air your grievances
It will help clarify any issues or lack of understanding
It can show how you can work with your employer to help improve working conditions
You can discus the subjects in a open environment and argue your points both positive and negative
It’s a great opportunity to ask questions with a professional Driver CPC trainer and discus with other drivers
Armed with the facts, you can drive/work with confidence – no grey areas
It will help improve your working day through having a better understanding of fuel efficiency, nutrition advice, how to deal with stress, customer service, traffic law and Health & Safety
Any training when driving a large, potentially lethal vehicle can only be beneficial for the driver and the public

Obviously this list isn’t exhaustive but they are the main points. If you disagree or would like to add to the list please feel free, just get in touch!

I can’t think of any reasons why not only taking Driver CPC training is necessary but why you, as a professional driver shouldn’t enjoy your day with like minded individuals. Rather than going into the session with a negative attitude, next time think about how beneficial Driver CPC Training can be for you, your employer and the public!

If you have any questions regarding the above, anything to do with Driver CPC Training or becoming a Driver CPC Consortium please do get in touch, we’re here to share the knowledge!

How to become a Driver CPC trainer

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In this post under Driver CPC training, we’ll look at how to become a Driver CPC trainer, analysing the different routes you can take to become a Driver CPC trainer. If you’re already working in the transport industry then it might be easier than you think!

Step 1. Get Qualified

The first thing you need to do is assess your current status, essentially are you qualified and what is your experience?

To become a Driver CPC training instructor, you will need to be suitably qualified within the subject matter you would like to teach and have the relevant skills and experience. So, if you’re a qualified Transport Manager or an experienced HGV driver for example, then it’s likely you already possess most of those skills and experience needed.

The other skill/experience/qualification you’ll need is for the teaching itself. If you don’t have any (or limited) teaching experience, then you should consider taking a ‘train the trainer course’. This is usually a 5-day course which will provide you with all the information and training you’ll need to teach Driver CPC training. There are plenty of train-the-trainer courses out there, just Google it or have a butcher’s at the RHA’s course here. It’s worth noting the RHA is ridiculously expensive but it is a very comprehensive course, I took it myself!

Once you’re qualified then you’re ready to go to the next stage.

Route 1. Apply for a Driver CPC Trainer job

Most training centres will only employ you on a part-time on an ad hoc basis. So essentially you’ll be a freelancer, but you never know there may be some full-time positions out there. I’m not going to teach you to suck eggs when it comes to applying for a job as I’m sure you’re well versed in this area. Just make sure your CV is up-to-date and well-written. I might write a ‘how to write a winning CV and cover letter’ at some point but we’ll save that for another time. A great way to earn a decent living from Driver CPC training is to tout yourself to various centres AND join a Driver CPC Consortium. This brings us to route 2.

Route 2. Join a Driver CPC Consortium

Joining a Driver CPC Consortium is a great way to become a Driver CPC trainer, and run your own business at the same time! It’s a good alternative to setting up a centre in your own right.

A Consortium is a fully-fledged Driver CPC training centre, but they also have the authority to provide trainers with the opportunity to deliver Driver CPC under their umbrella. It’s essentially a cost-effective and hassle-free way to set up your own Driver CPC training business. Many freelancers, in-house transport managers and existing training centres do it this way.

There are a few Driver CPC Consortiums out there but of course, I’m going to promote my own Driver CPC training consortium! The remaining route is to set up your own Driver CPC training centre.

Route 3. Set up a Driver CPC training Centre

DVSA oversee all Driver CPC Training centres. They manage applications and quality assure centres and courses that deliver periodic training in the UK.

First, go to the .gov website. Download and complete the application form. One for the centre and one when applying to register your courses.

As part of the application, you will need to write a scheme of control or SoC. This document should include all the policies and procedures you’ll need to run your centre.

If you need help with this, then feel free to get in touch as I can supply a template Scheme of Control. I can also provide course materials, tools, stationery and support to help you get your training centre approval as quickly and efficiently as possible.

I hope you found my How to Become a Driver CPC Trainer post useful. If you need any advice or further information please do get in touch. We’re here to share the knowledge!

Why we like Policies and Procedures for Transport Managers

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Why do we like Policies and Procedures for Transport Managers? Imagine a bustling transport operation where vehicles are dispatched seamlessly, maintenance issues are promptly addressed, and drivers adhere to strict safety protocols. This smooth operation isn’t a result of chance but of meticulously crafted policies and procedures. While the topic might not seem thrilling at first glance, its importance cannot be overstated.

Policies and procedures for transport managers provide the foundational framework for how a transport department functions. They define responsibilities, streamline decision-making, and ensure consistent and transparent operations. By establishing clear guidelines, policies and procedures helps prevent misunderstandings and debates, making it easier to navigate complex situations and maintain organisational harmony.

Transport managers, in particular, rely on these frameworks to implement Operator Licence undertakings effectively. From vehicle checks and maintenance to health and safety protocols, grievance procedures, and training programs, comprehensive policies cover a wide array of operational aspects. Writing a policies and procedures manual is undoubtedly a significant and time-consuming task, but it results in a powerful document that is indispensable to any efficient transport operation.

Why Do We Have Policies and Procedures?

Ensuring Efficiency and Control

No successful operator can run efficiently without robust policies and processes in place. A business without these guidelines is like a truck without a driver—essentially an organisation without control. Personnel at all levels would lack the guidance needed to make decisions and carry out tasks effectively. Consider the scenario of returning a faulty product to a shop without a clear refund policy; the outcome would vary based on who is serving you. Similarly, the absence of policies leads to inconsistent decision-making within an organisation.

Components of a Strong Internal Control System

The purpose of creating an internal control system through defining and documenting processes with well-written procedures can be summarised into four key components:

Compliance: Complying with traffic laws and regulations is the fundamental responsibility of any operator. While policies and procedures alone may not demonstrate compliance, well-documented processes, including training and record-keeping, highlight an effective internal control system and adherence to regulations and standards.
Operational Needs: Policies and procedures ensure that all operations run smoothly by providing clear guidelines on how tasks should be performed. This leads to a more organised and efficient workflow.
Managing Risks: Identifying and mitigating risks is crucial for any transport operation. Well-defined procedures help manage potential risks by establishing protocols for various scenarios, thereby minimising the chance of errors and accidents.
Continuous Improvement through Review: Regularly reviewing the effectiveness of policies is an integral part of internal control. Are your objectives being met? Are they meaningful and reflective of the process’s importance and risk? Necessary corrections can be identified and implemented through these reviews, fostering continuous improvement. Improvement is always a question of “as compared to what?”

Enhancing Efficiency and Reducing Supervision

Efficiency is at the heart of a transport manager’s role. Since the transport manager cannot be everywhere at once, developing and communicating policies allows staff and drivers to understand and adhere to their responsibilities independently. This reduces the need for direct supervision and increases overall operational efficiency. Creating well-defined processes documented by procedures to meet legal and regulatory requirements should be a top priority.

The Benefits of Well-Defined Policies and Procedures

Supporting Effective Decision-Making

Clear policies and procedures provide a framework for decision-making and delegation. They outline what actions are permissible, what decisions can be made, and what activities are appropriate. This clarity supports effective decision-making at all levels of the organisation.

Reducing Misunderstandings and Ensuring Consistency

A clear policy framework minimises misunderstandings and debates about specific situations. It ensures transparency and consistency in organisational operations and decision-making, creating a more harmonious and efficient working environment.

Implementation and Challenges

Creating a Comprehensive Manual

Writing a policies and procedures manual is a significant undertaking for any transport manager. It requires time and effort to gather all the necessary information and format it into a coherent document. However, once completed, it becomes a valuable asset that provides clear guidance for all operational aspects.

Utilising Off-the-Shelf Templates

Off-the-shelf templates can save time and effort. They provide a good starting point, but it’s crucial to customise them to meet your specific company requirements. While templates reduce the initial workload, a thorough review and adjustments are necessary to ensure they fit your organisation’s unique needs.

It’s worth noting that if you are ever in the unfortunate position of being called to a public enquiry, the Traffic Commissioner will scrutinise your policies and processes. If you have purchased an off-the-shelf template and have not made the requisite amendments, they will notice!

Continuous Improvement and Review

Regular Reviews and Updates

Reviewing data for policy effectiveness is a critical form of internal control and should be an integral part of the process. Annual reviews help determine if objectives are being achieved and if they are meaningful and reflective of the process’s importance and risk. These reviews enable necessary corrections and improvements.

Driving Improvement

Improvement occurs when comparing the prior condition to the current condition. It’s essential to ask, “as compared to what?” This question drives continuous improvement, ensuring that policies and procedures remain effective and relevant.

Conclusion

Policies and procedures are the backbone of any successful transport operation. They provide the structure needed for efficient and compliant operations, support effective decision-making, and drive continuous improvement. While creating these documents can be time-consuming, the benefits they offer make them an indispensable part of a transport manager’s toolkit.

If you would like to purchase our comprehensive Compliance Pack or would like to know more about writing your own policies and procedures for transport managers, please do get in touch. Here to share the knowledge!