The Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) and Mission Zero have announced a new collaboration focused on more accessible road risk training for van and light vehicle drivers.

Both accreditation schemes have revised their training requirements to offer van and light vehicle drivers greater flexibility and accessibility.

Key changes include a more accessible and flexible training route for drivers whose role requires only a Category B driving licence, while fully retaining core learning outcomes regarding road risk and the safety of vulnerable road users.

FORS approved training requirements have also been amended so eligible Category B drivers can now meet the requirement through Panoramic Interactive Video Training, providing interactive learning that can be delivered online or in a classroom.

Supported by Transport for London (TfL), these joint requirements have been published simultaneously within FORS Standard version 7.2 and Mission Zero Standard version 1.5.2.

John Moran, chair of the FORS Governance and Standards Advisory Group, said the revised approach provides a proportionate training route for light vehicle fleets without changing the immersive training requirements that continue to apply to HGV and PCV drivers.

While the training requirements within the two standards have always aligned, it’s the first time the organisations have worked together to develop a common approach for operators, training providers and contractual specifiers.

Moran continued: “This is an important development and a strong example of accreditation schemes working together in the interests of operators, drivers and road safety.

“FORS and Mission Zero have always maintained aligned work-related road risk training requirements. By working together on this change, the two schemes have introduced greater flexibility and accessibility for van and light vehicle drivers while retaining the purpose and quality of the training.”

Adi Wanford, Mission Zero governance board member, said the collaboration delivered “a practical and proportionate response to the needs of van fleets, giving operators a more accessible way to undertake effective work-related road risk training without compromising its purpose, quality or required learning outcomes”.

He continued: “From my experience of managing a large, geographically dispersed van fleet, delivering consistent face-to-face training can be operationally challenging. A flexible online route will help operators reach more drivers while reducing avoidable travel and operational disruption.

The revised requirements take effect from their publication within the respective standards. Operators and training providers should refer to the published standards and supporting training requirements to confirm which pathway applies to their drivers. The change does not affect the current immersive training requirement for HGV and PCV drivers.