The deadline for all drivers operating an LGV 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 yesterday (10 September 2014).
‘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,’ explained Steve Bridge, managing director, Mercedes-Benz Vans.
‘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,' he added.
Mercedes-Benz UK runs approved Driver CPC training courses, to help ensure that van drivers are recognised for the part they play in keeping the country mobile. Courses are designed to offer all of the relevant guidance through interactive and varied classroom and in-vehicle training, with a wide range of optional topics covering a variety of areas, such as load securing, driving safety, economical driving, road risk and road safety.
Iceland Foods recognises the benefits of driver training and has put 900 of its home delivery vehicle fleet drivers through specialist courses at their Centre of Excellence to date. Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicle Dealer Road Range provides specialist training and product familiarisation alongside Iceland’s own team at the Centre, who are training store managers in their accountability for driver safety.