Hi, I have an issue at my workplace regarding qualifications and training for HGV shunters, and would appreciate any thoughts or guidance. We have a number of warehouse staff who operate our shunters around the yard areas. They have either received training whilst with a previous employer or hold an HGV licence. Experience and ability varies from one man to the next. I have instigated refresher training as this has been lacking for a number of years because they do not operate the shunting vehicle on a daily, or even weekly basis. We recently suffered a 'drive away' incident because the tugman didn't adhere to the bay light policy. They all understand the RA's. We have an HGV driver assessor employed with the company and I got him to conduct refresher training and assess each individual. My boss wants to use him to instruct other warehouse staff to operate the shunter, with the only proviso being that they must have a car licence. Where do you think we would stand with the Insurers in the event of a claim from a third party vehicle making deliveries to our premises. I am advising that we get an external training provider to train novice staff. Regards, Thom

Thanks Ian.