IC: operators should test drivers for drink or drugs
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By Roger Brown
SENIOR TRAFFIC commissioner (TC) Beverley Bell said it is best practice for operators to randomly test their drivers for drink or drugs in the run-up to the festive period.
She added that hauliers should also have in place an occupational road risk policy to deal with drivers caught driving while under the influence of either and that they should make these procedures clear to their staff.
"Traffic commissioners are clear about the professional standards we expect to see from LGV drivers — it is not appropriate for any driver to be under the influence of drink or drugs while operating a large goods vehicle," she said.
"Operators play a key role in this and need to have an occupational road risk policy in place to deal with instances where drink or drug driving is identified. "It is absolutely critical for licence holders to ensure
that drivers are aware of the professional standards and the operator's policy. Licence holders should also plan for the risk of a driver failing to uphold those standards."
Bell pointed to the likelihood that police will step up their enforcement measures over the Christmas period. She also warned drivers that the TCs have the power to suspend and revoke their
vocational entitlements as well as disqualify them.
"A key part of our role is to examine whether a driver remains fit to hold a licence after being convicted of an offence or reported for adverse conduct.
"Any driver who is reported for drink or drug driving will put their vocational driving licence at risk.
"Drivers need to be aware that this is not limited to the court's power of disqualification."