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We cannot hide from the CTD
Page 10
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In two years' time all new drivers will have to pass tests to gain a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) a qualification, say its advocates, that will finally recognise and validate the professionalism of truck drivers. Opponents say that the costs will prove a big turn-off for new recruits. The cost of sitting the four exam modules is more than £200, and this is in addition to the cost of the training itself. One train bg company estimates the total costs to be around 22,500 per driver. And it
doesn't stop there-once the licence has been won, every driver will have to complete 35 hours of training every five years. But those drivers with their new qualifications will also expect better wages to reflect their professionalism. The Transport
and General Workers Union warns that this is an inevitable consequence of creating a more skilled workforce. Transport users must understand they have been getting off lightly for a long time. So what needs to be done now? Some fear that those with low literacy levels will not be able to cope with a four-hour theory test. It may be overstating the case to say that there are many potential entrants who cannot read or write. But if this is a genuine problem, help must be provided.
As details of courses become available, operators should begin planning for a cycle of periodic training and examining where their existing training programmes overlap with the new requirements. Periodic training includes safer and more fuelefficient driving, leading to savings that everyone will welcome.
Whatever happens, it is vital that operators prepare for the CTD in good time. The Driver CPC may prove the industry's best opportunity to reposition itself as a profession capable of offering decent careers, training and development to the vital workers who distribute the nation's goods.
Let's not waste this gilt-edged opportunity.