FTA scores dangerous goods driver training win

Training for lorry and van drivers engaged in dangerous goods transportation will continue to be flexible, thanks to an agreement won by the Freight Transport Association (FTA). A review of ADR Driver Training in the UK had threatened the modularity of existing “ADR” driver training, which could have led to much longer – and more expensive – training for those drivers working in key important sectors such as fuel oil and gas distribution. The proposals also included subject areas not relevant to these drivers and would have added significant cost burdens to those distribution and logistics sectors already facing difficult economic conditions.

Following pressure by FTA, the Department for Transport (DfT) has agreed that the existing system should remain, with an additional provision of a basic course for drivers to be launched in July 2009.

Chris MacRae, who led FTA’s representations, said: “Training is a vital part of the logistics industry, but these proposals could have thrown the baby out with the bath water. This is a really important victory for the logistics industry and for common sense, as it properly reflects the need for flexible relevant training as well as the need for a basic course.”

FTA has also called on the DfT to look at a more wide-reaching review of driver training needs in this sector. As a result, the Department is likely to propose that the United Nations Working Party on the Transportation of Dangerous Goods (WP15), which is responsible for the ADR Agreement, review the driver training provisions of ADR. As a leading member of the international logistics community, FTA is looking forward to working with DfT in developing these proposals in order to meet the training needs of drivers and operators, as well as the safety needs of the wider public and the environment.