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RULES AND REGS
Page 38
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Despite operating in a war zone, 10 00GLR has to comply with a surprising number of the rules and regulations that affect regular UK truck drivers.
For instance, the regiment rigorously complies with regular drivers hours regulations, although instead of digital tachographs, they fill out hours cards.
'We always try to stick to drivers' hours, both in training and in theatre," explains Captain Sugdon.
"They may be well trained and at the peak of physical fitness, but they do need to eat and sleep like everyone else. You only get out what you put in."
But it isn't always easy. In Afghanistan, the convoys will normally travel a distance of between 30km and 120krn, but anything can happen.
"Sometimes a two-hour journey can take 12 hours," says Captain Sugdon, "in which case we may need to apply for special dispensation for longer driving hours."
Like other truck drivers, military drivers must also carry out a daily walkround, known as the first parade. Making life a bit easier in the EPLS is a system that allows all the bulbs to be tested from the safety of the driver's seat.
All trucks are limited to 85km/h.