Driver Training & How it Promotes Compliance
Professional transport in Britain is governed tightly by a whole series of rules. As such, it pays for transport managers to know them inside out, but even then, they can’t do everything on their own. That’s why a culture needs to be encouraged in which drivers are proactive in learning the rules and policing themselves. It’s certainly something that will make your life easier.
In this article, we shine a light on why a compliance-focused work culture is important and discuss a few strategies you can employ. Let’s delve into the subject, and it all begins with establishing a firm grasp of licencing rules.
Understanding Licensing Regulations
The importance of correct driver licensing can’t be understated, as it’s the only documentation that confirms the people driving your trucks are qualified. As such, if you don’t periodically check each driver’s status, you can be sure that they possess the necessary skills, knowledge and legal right to do so.
It’s an ongoing process, too, as you must regularly check your drivers’ licences for any points they’ve accrued. What will also pay dividends is offering refresher training for your drivers to ensure they understand licencing rules and how they affect them.
Educating Drivers On All Areas of Compliance
Central to the task of making drivers see compliance as of high importance, as opposed to a chore, is ensuring they feel valued. When you invest time and money in training in all areas of compliance, it demonstrates concern for not just road safety but also their safety.
Educational programs also show your commitment to upholding the highest standards in the transport industry and serve to establish a culture of individual responsibility. Here are just a few examples of the strategies you can employ to achieve this end.
- Comprehensive Training Programmes: Use training modules that cover not only driving skills but also legal and regulatory aspects. Be sure to include information on licensing requirements, endorsements, renewal procedures, and the consequences that ensue from non-compliance.
- Regular Refresher Courses: Offer periodic refresher courses to refresh your drivers’ knowledge of licensing regulations and provide updates on any changes or updates to the law that they need to be aware of.
- Interactive Workshops: By allowing peers to get together and discuss their profession with experts, they’re able to deepen their understanding while also helping them address any doubts or misconceptions they might have. This is also a great place for drivers to share experiences and tips.
- Mentorship Programs: Another way to get the buy-in from your drivers is to pair those newer to the industry with experienced drivers. This kind of mentorship program is great for enhancing camaraderie and morale with your fleet while also helping to reinforce messaging around safe driving and licencing compliance.
Achieving The Right Culture With a Proactive Approach
While threatening penalties and disciplinary action can help ensure that everyone within your fleet complies with rules governing driver hours, licencing, safety, and maintenance, it’s better to get everyone on board willingly. The educational route is one that can bear greater fruit and result in a work culture where everyone watches each other’s backs and ensures compliance throughout your organisation.
By using comprehensive training, interactive workshops and mentorships, transport companies empower their team to take control of their own competence. Taking this path is something of a no-brainer.
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