A new European Union directive has been brought in to ensure drivers’ skills are up to date.
All professional drivers in charge of vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, up to 44 tonne HGVs, now have to complete 35 hours of specialised training by 2014 to carry on driving legally.
The EU directive specifies that commercial drivers have to gain their driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) and is aimed at improving driving standards.
In the North West, Bolton Community College has joined forces with the Transport Training Academy to launch the first training scheme for commercial drivers in the North West.
The CPC courses include practical and classroom-based courses.
In an article with the Bolton Evening News, David Coupe, managing director of Bolton-based Transport Training Academy has said: “New regulations such as the CPC will mean that higher levels of driver competence are required by professional drivers. Qualification and courses like this are really important for employers to ensure they are complying with the new driving standards and safeguarding themselves against health and safety regulations.”
Sean Joyce, Road Transport Partner at Stephensons Solicitors LLP, said: “The new requirement will ensure that drivers maintain specific standards which are continually updated. However, it may become a further financial burden on smaller businesses.”