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B demands action on CNG trucks
Page 6
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THE GMB UNION, acting on concerns among Safeway drivers, is calling for an independent assessment into the apparent dangers of driving natural gas-powered trucks.
Growing unease among drivers at the Aylesford depot has even resulted in refusals to drive trucks they believe to be unsafe.
The union alleges the converted Scania 3-Series trucks, which use compressed natural gas (CNG), are unreliable and could be dangerous to other road users —particularly on motorways —if trucks lose power or misfire. It says Safeway is not taking enough notice of the drivers it employs.
A letter from the GMB senior shop steward to Safeway's transport control ler, Mark Clarke, states: "The vehicles are viewed by many to cause extra stress in an already stressful environment. For some drivers it has completely undermined their confidence,"It continues:"The trade union would like to see an independent assessment in a full working environment."The steward accepts that he considers the vehicles to be "roadworthy but problematic".
One driver,Tom Couchman, says: "The feedback! have received from the drivers is a fear of these vehicles; the main concern is not being confident that the vehicle will stop in time to avoid an accident."
Safeway's press office were unable to comment fully prior to CM going to press. Scania was also unavailable for comment.