Early and evenly spaced Driver CPC training will be encouraged as best practice as one of multiple amendments made to the Senior Traffic Commissioner’s statutory document 6 on vocational driver conduct.
That position is among outcomes from an earlier consultation on proposed changes. The document now notes how Traffic Commissioners (TCs) will expect drivers to actively engage in identifying Driver CPC training from which they will benefit most, to undertake any training as soon as practicable, and and to space the remainder evenly throughout the period.
A response from the TCs to the consultation outlining next steps notes how of the nine submissions received, one objected to a suggestion that completing Driver CPC training late in the five-year cycle is “inherently problematic.”
The next steps acknowledge concerns around timing of that training, particularly in coach and bus where schedules are often arranged by operators around operational needs. “While completing training late in the cycle is not, in itself, a compliance breach, there is an expectation that learning is planned, managed, and appropriately identified,” it is noted.
“The [statutory document] wording will be amended to clarify that early and evenly spaced training is encouraged as best practice. However, a TC retains the discretion to view last-minute completion of training as a negative feature, particularly where delayed training results in a driver operating without the required knowledge, leading to an offence.”
Also adopted into the reissued statutory document is a requirement for drivers to know how to use accessibility equipment on their vehicle as part of PSVAR, in addition to being required by law to provide reasonable assistance to disabled people.
“Drivers should therefore ensure that they are trained in the use of accessibility equipment available on vehicles they operate, as failure to provide reasonable assistance will be regarded a conduct issue,” the document states.
In other areas under consultation, submissions unanimously agreed that more should be done to raise awareness of the TCs among vocational drivers. The Commissioners will now collaborate with other organisations to distribute key messages through existing channels and explore including guidance around their function in Driver CPC training.
Additionally, submissions supported ongoing use of virtual hearings where appropriate, although concerns were raised about fairness for unrepresented drivers, those with limited access to technology, and what is termed a “reduced deterrent effect.”
The next steps note that TCs will continue to support virtual hearings when appropriate. However, guidance will be updated to emphasise that in-person appearances remain available and may be required where fairness or the case nature demands.
