At Gaskells we understand the importance of training and development of our staff, not only to help the company achieve our goals, but also to give our employees learning opportunities so they can keep moving forward in their careers. The waste industry, along with our business is continually evolving, with different challenges all the time, so we know our team needs to have the knowledge and skills to respond effectively and quickly. Claire and Siobhan from our Transport Dept are the latest members of the Gaskells team to complete the FORS HGV and PCV Fleet Management Essentials course, which has given them the skills to ensure they’ll be able to help maintain continuous and effective control of our fleet operation.
As we are in a ‘new normal’ now, the course was delivered online by FORS, in two three hour sessions. It covered all aspects of fleet management and has equipped Claire and Siobhan with additional skills and knowledge, with both agreeing they now have more confidence to deal directly with issues should they arise.
Claire said: “From the course I now have more knowledge and insight into the fleet operation and the rules & regulations we have to adhere to. I found it interesting and feel I can give more assistance to the Fleet and Transport Managers going forward”
Siobhan “The course was really informative and gave me additional knowledge on the fleet side which is helping with my role looking after the drivers and ensuring all legislation regarding the driving hours, working times and road safety are adhered to”
Paddy Willoughby, our Fleet Manager said: “This is a course which benefits the company and Claire and Siobhan themselves. It gives them a more detailed insight into the daily workings/pitfalls within the transport industry and an understanding of the duties of the drivers themselves, in what they can and can’t do i.e. drivers hours/WTD and the legal implications in not maintaining compliance”
Objectives of the FORS HGV and PCV Fleet Management Essentials course:
Provide an overview of the Operator Licencing system and the licence application process
Explain the complementary nature of the Operator Licence Undertakings and requirements of the FORS Standard
Manage the Operator Licence, complying with its undertakings and the latest guidance from the Traffic Commissioner
Explain the key aspects of Drivers’ Hours and Working Time rules and their links to fatigue and road safety
Implement and manage a maintenance system and defect reporting regime that maximises vehicle roadworthiness and safety
Apply and communicate the principles of safe loading and good load security systems across the fleet operation
Describe the importance of driver licensing, CPC training, professional development and the moral, economic and legal case for ensuring driver competence
Promote good driving standards including speed management and deal with driving infractions as part of a driving standards policy
Explain the roles and responsibilities of the regulatory and enforcement bodies and recognize the risks, consequences and penalties for non-compliance
Demonstrate an outline knowledge of the broader legislative framework covering international fleet operations.