New EU Regulations to promote health and safety, eco-driving and road safety for truck drivers came into force across Europe, on Thursday September 10.
All trucks drivers who drive for a living are now required to have a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC). The Road Safety Authority (RSA) says the Driver CPC will enhance the driving skills of bus and truck drivers and put professional driving on an equal standing with other professions in the workplace.
The Driver CPC will also lead to fewer casualties on our roads giving greater protection to more vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, motorcyclists, cyclists the very young and older people, according to the RSA.
Any drivers holding a valid full licence in the truck licence category on or before 9th September 2009 are automatically entitled to the new Driver CPC.
A driver applying for a truck licence on or after 10th September 2009 will now be required to pass a further theory and practical driving test in addition to the ordinary truck driving test, if they wish to become a professional truck driver.
All drivers who hold a Driver CPC, whether by sitting the new tests or by acquired rights will be required to complete a 35 hour training programme during the following five years in order to retain the Driver CPC. This will consist of a day’s training per year over the five years.
There are currently 51 RSA approved training providers in 151 locations throughout the country. A list of RSA approved training centres can be found on the RSA website.
Noel Brett, Chief Executive of the RSA said: “These new changes are being introduced in all European Union Member States on the 10th September 2009, as part of a Europe-wide initiative to improve road safety and recognise the particular responsibility truck drivers have in relation to road safety.”
“It will undoubtedly save many lives across the EU and in Ireland. Fewer collisions will also save transport employers the costs of vehicle repair and loss of trade. It will also be easier for professional drivers to find employment in any EU member state once they have a Driver CPC.”
He added: “Driver CPC for Bus drivers was introduced a year ago on 10th September 2008. It is important that all professional Bus and Truck drivers are aware that the implementation of Driver CPC signifies the importance of professional drivers to the economy and to the EU as a whole.
It also illustrates the need for professional driving to be put on an equal standing with other professions in the workplace. We are confident that the industry will embrace the new certification as part of their commitment to saving lives on our roads and improving Eco- driving which will have financial benefits to the industry.”
