The state of our roads and an up coming deadline

State-of-the-roads

The state of our roads and an up coming deadline

The RHA (Road Haulage Association) says:

“To keep the economy moving and competitive, our industry needs robust infrastructure which is fit for purpose. We need a network of roads in place which are safe and reliable – with capacity to accommodate future growth in demand.

Congestion costs the UK economy approximately £30.8 billion which works out at an average cost per driver of £968 a year and for our sector, this can have real consequences where congestion is estimated to account for 16% of all outlays in road freight. “

It has issued a Blueprint document, making  it clear that it’s crucial that the Government invests in our road network soon and speeds up delivery of road projects at all levels; from pothole repairs to bypasses to major infrastructure.

“A more reliable road network in place will improve journeys, reduce costs for operators, tackle congestion and unlock economic growth through better connectivity between UK towns and cities.”

The RHA is also reminding drivers that those who gained their Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) before 2019, the deadline to renew in September is fast approaching.

Drivers must complete 35 hours of CPC every five years and the deadline to complete the CPC training for many is Monday 9 September.

Missing the deadline will mean they cannot drive professionally and face fines of up to £1000 if they do so.

New safety standard for hauliers driving in London launches in October

New-Safety-Standards

New safety standard for hauliers driving in London launches in October

The new Direct Vision Standard safety criteria are designed to meet Transport for London’s (TfL) Progressive Safe System (PSS).

The RHA has an explanatory document which sets out what a Blind Spot Information System and Moving Off Information System should do.

It can be found here https://bit.ly/DVSExp

Hauliers should have the PSS kit installed in their vehicles by October 28 after the RHA successfully negotiated for a three-month extension with TfL.

Full details of the scheme and its requirements are also on the TfL website here https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/deliveries-in-london/delivering-safely/direct-vision-in-heavy-goods-vehicles#on-this-page-5