Rank: New forum user
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Hi,
Just a quick question, if you have a company that uses VW vans on a day to day basis and when necessary use a twin axle trailer to transport a piece of equipment on an ad hoc basis, is there any qualifications that the driver needs (apart from a full driving license and a trailer category if they passed their test after 1997) or the company needs for that matter? Appologies for the vage question :) Many thanks for any answers that may come my way.
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Rank: Forum user
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Not only will the drivers need the right category on their licences B+E or C1+E depending on the overall GVW of the vans in question, you should ensure the Weight of the Trailer and Load does not exceed a) the Maximum permissible towing weight allowed by the vehicle manufacturer and b) the weight of the trailer and load combined does not exceed the maximum permissible weights allowed for the category of licence the driver holds.
Even if a Driver has the right category given due to passing his/her driving test before 1997, you should ensure they are competent to tow a trailer, particularly if it's a twin axle. This may mean an assessment or conversion course and records of such training (particularly reversing); many trailer manufacturers or driving schools can offer these.
Ensure you have a robust 'daily check / first parade' procedure for each vehicle to include trailer lights and functions in addition to the vans themselves. Review your defect reporting procedures and forms.
Lastly, is the towing work your own equipment or moving someone else's for Hire or reward? If so, you may need to look at an Operator's licence (VOSA can help here)
Hope this helps
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Rank: Super forum user
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Based on our driving risk assessment we insist that all people who take out our very expensive pieces of kit out on twin trailers have specific training irrespective of when they obtained their licences.
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Rank: Super forum user
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Interesting 1 this; as I am lead to believe that younger peoples licences do not cover the same areas that were automatically covered in older peoples licences - 1 to confirm and take note of
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Rank: New forum user
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Many thanks for the answers. Wizzpete, thanks for the adivce and I will be looking deeper into their requirements, however I don't think that they will need an operators license as it is their own kit that they move.
Regards
Richard
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