New EU Legislation for Oil Delivery Drivers
From 10 September 2009 new legislation requires HGV drivers to hold a Driver’s Certificate of Professional Competence. Drivers will be required to complete a total of 35 hours training over a maximum period of 5 years. This training can be completed in blocks of minimum 7 hours per year or can be completed in one block of 35 hours.
Whilst grandfather rights are being given to existing drivers for the first 5 year period, they will be expected to complete the training within that time period for their registration to be maintained further. Any new drivers will need to achieve the qualification before they will be allowed to work.
The Department for Transport has established a Joint Approved Unit of Periodic Training (JAUPT) which is the certifier for the scheme and custodian of a register of approved drivers. To be included in this register, drivers must hold an HGV qualification in addition to the new certificate of professional competency. Trainers, and training centres, offering this must also be approved by JAUPT.
OFTEC has worked closely with Federation of Petroleum Suppliers (FPS) to develop bespoke training for the Oil sector. The FPS approved course includes a 1 day module including tank installation, spillage control and working at heights.
Courses are presented by FPS trainers and centres can offer their facilities as a venue if they wish – the venue must be registered with the FPS and may be subject to audit.
Oil delivery drivers and tank installers who do not hold HGV qualifications may choose to take this module in isolation to demonstrate their competence in the Oil sector.
Member companies employing delivery drivers can also choose to have the course presented exclusively to their workforce at their own premises. Attendance at each course is limited to a maximum of 16.
OFTEC and FPS would like to invite training centres and member companies to express their interest in adding this training course to their portfolio.
For further information please contact :
Michael Ong – Technical Manager (UK)
Federation of Petroleum Suppliers Limited
6 Royal Court,
Tatton Street,
Knutsford,
Cheshire,
WA16 6EN
Tel: +44 (0)1565 631313
Fax: +44 (0)1565 631314
Email: mo@fpsonline.co.uk