FTA urges progress on Driver CPC training10 September 2012

Two years prior to the deadline for Driver CPC (DCPC), the FTA (Freight Transport Association) is warning of the dangers of leaving training until the last minute.

The concern comes as the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) reports 'promising progress' and a growing number of drivers taking the training. However, the same figures also suggest there is a long way to go to ensure that every licensed driver has a current Driver Qualification Card in time.

According to statistics obtained by FTA, at the end of July there were 2,980 approved courses and 1,195 centres delivering training for those 528,000 drivers who have made a start.

However, reports show that to date there still remains a shortfall of 1.3 million days plus an unknown number of drivers who have not yet started the training.

"The next two years will be a crucial test for the road freight industry," states James Firth, FTA's head of road freight and enforcement policy.

"The message to operators is that, if they have not yet started to get their drivers trained, they can still do so in time – but they need to start now," he insists.

"The Traffic Commissioners have assured the industry that they will take action against drivers found driving without a complete DCPC after the deadline – and also against operators who allow drivers to drive without a complete DCPC,' asserts Firth.

Author
John Challen

Related Companies
Freight Transport Association Ltd

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