Two new exemptions relating to driver CPC will be introduced in autumn 2013, following a Government consultation.
Under current European rules, anyone who drives heavy goods vehicles or buses must complete a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).
However, under the new rules, around 76,000 people who drive them for short distances for the purposes of delivering or repairing them, will soon be exempt. The Government says the move will save UK businesses around £29m.
Stephen Hammond, roads minister, said: “Driver training is essential to ensure that lorry and bus drivers keep their skills up to scratch and keep our roads safe.
“But making the training compulsory for those who only drive HGVs over short distances – because they are delivering them for repair or testing – is costly and time-consuming. That is why we are making these exemptions which will reduce costs and administration for businesses.”
The first exemption benefits both mechanics and valets delivering vehicles. It applies as long as: no goods or passengers are being carried; the vehicle is not being used for hire or reward; driving HGVs or PSVs is not the driver’s main job; and the vehicle remains within 50km of the driver’s base.
The second exemption, which benefits mechanics, applies as long as the vehicle is being driven to an official VOSA or authorised testing facility.
The Government says it intends to look again at whether further CPC exemptions can be introcuced in respect of farmers.
Click here for more information.
I feel that most drivers/riders would benefit from such training but ask the question: Will it prevent HGV drivers from constantly tailgating (some 20 ft behind another HGV and totally blind to any other traffic conditions ahead) and will it prevent them from unnecessary overtaking and continuing two abreast for several miles, thus causing dangerous congestion and annoyance to other drivers?
Congestion of traffic is a cause of incidents/collision and many circumstances are causes by such inconsiderate driving.
Bob Craven Lancs
0