Senior Traffic Commissioner (STC) Richard Turfitt (pictured) has reminded company Directors that the ultimate responsibility for an O-Licence remains with them, and that they should undertake regular audits of compliance, remain up to date on legislation and action any shortcomings discovered.
Speaking at the Confederation of Passenger Transport’s National Coach Conference last week, Mr Turfitt adds that it is incumbent on Directors to ensure that Transport Managers (TMs) are exercising continuous and effective control.
“I still see examples of TMs who have lost sight of what they should be delivering,” he continues. “But TMs should also expect things from their bosses. They need your feedback and support, they need the right tools for the job, and they need to understand their worth.”
To ensure that TMs remain in control of the transport operation Mr Turfitt says that Directors should be asking questions of them. But company leaders should also discuss the O-Licence and compliance in board meetings, adds the STC.
“Directors have the ultimate responsibility for the O-Licence and for the transport operation. They should have an inquiring mind. An operator’s O-Licence is its key asset.”
Mr Turfitt stresses that TMs must be able to correctly interpret brake test reports. But it is not always the case that they can, which gives rise to concern among the STC and his colleagues. In test reports, percentages are required, not just pass/fail.
Additionally, it is important that control of drivers is maintained to ensure ongoing compliance. With agency or self-employed drivers, that becomes more difficult than with employed staff, but it remains a responsibility of the Directors to ensure that it happens.
