DVSA staff to undertake CV technician assessment training
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By Hayley Pink
DVSA (formerly Vosa and the DSA) inspectors are to undertake a training and assessment programme aimed at setting a high industry benchmark for workshop CV technicians.
On successful completion of the training, all inspectors will receive the Institute of Road Transport Engineers' (IRTE) industryrecognised Irtec licence and Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) Awards QAA certificate. DVSA chief executive Alastair Peoples said that with an expanding network of authorised testing facilities — the 400th facility opened earlier this month in Hemel Hempsead, Herts — demand for quality inspections is higher than ever. "The industry has always valued the professionalism and
integrity of our inspectors and, with the new qualifications, they will deliver a first-class service to our customers."
The Irtec qualification, which was designed for the bus and coach sector and later adapted for CV technicians, has been gaining support from the industry since its relaunch in January 2011.
Daf Trucks has placed more than 1,000 apprentices through the scheme, while own-account operators Morrisons and Robert Wiseman Dairies are also on board, with the supermarket giant aiming to put 20% of its technicians through the qualification each year. Road Haulage Association head of technical service Ray Engley said the qualification provided a good way of assisting hauliers when they are trying to
choose a maintenance provider, as well as having the advantage of being a scheme that the industry is closely involved with in terms of setting the standards.
Ian Chisholm, head of operations and communications at IRTE's umbrella organisation, the Society of Operations Engineers, said: "Through assessing and licensing road transport technicians on their skills and knowledge, Irtec's objective is to raise standards, and improve vehicle maintenance and road safety.
"In putting its vehicle inspectors forward for Irtec licences, the DVSA is making a commitment to ensuring a standardised level of skills and knowledge among its testers. It is also making a commitment to promoting overall vehicle safety and compliance across road transport."