Foundations laid for new Petroleum Driver Passport 16 April 2013

Following a tendering exercise, the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) has been appointed scheme manager to deliver the UK's first Petroleum Driver Passport (PDP).

The UK Downstream Oil Distribution Forum (DODF) says SQA met the quality and delivery requirements and adds that detailed work is now underway for launch of the passport on 1 January 2014.

Brian Worrall, DODF independent chair (pictured), says that the PDP will give assurance to fuel terminal operators, customers and the public that tanker drivers have a common core of tested knowledge and competence in the loading, driving and off-loading of fuel tankers.

The Passport is supported by the PDP Training Standard, which all tanker operators will be able to use as the basis of their driver training and development.

The PDP builds on the knowledge already tested in the ADR certification process by adding vital additional knowledge and a practical assessment of skills identified by the employers and trades unions involved on the DODF. This includes content specific to five industry sub sectors; Home Heat, Commercial, Aviation, Retail and Marine.

"SQA brings valuable experience and expertise, which will ensure the quality and credibility of the PDP," comments Worrall.

"I believe SQA's considerable experience of developing, assessing and quality assuring qualifications relating to the transport of dangerous goods means we can be trusted by the industry to help demonstrate drivers' skills and knowledge," adds Sue Macfarlane, head of specialist awards and services at SQA.

The PDP will be delivered through a combination of in-house or third party training and assessment providers who will now be accredited and audited by SQA.

The passport will be valid for a five-year period, as with the ADR licence, but each driver will be subject to an annual refresher day and both a written and a practical assessment.

Author
Brian Tinham

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