Transport & Maintenance
I am receiving deliveries; how can I do this safely?
It is important to ensure that social distancing measures are implemented on farm when accepting any deliveries.
NFUS, in collaboration with Road Haulage Association, is prompting the Drop n’ Go approach to ensure farmers, crofters and delivery drivers can stay safe. You can find out more here: https://www.nfus.org.uk/news/news/drop-n-go-to-keep-farming
Tips to consider may include communicating with your delivery service to work out a plan to accept the delivery safely, this may include:
- Receiving an emailed delivery note or invoice,
- Agreeing a designated drop-off zone in advance to prevent you from mixing with the driver,
- Placing signage where is visible for any delivery driver stating you are practicing social distancing measures, or
- Placing a bucket of soapy water at the drop-off point if the drivers want to wash their hands.
Guidance about social distancing is available here: https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-covid-19-social-distancing
How has Coronavirus Impacted MOTs?
Over the last week, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency has announced UK wide changes where vehicles require MOTs.
- MOTs for lorries, buses and trailers have been suspended for up to 3-months from 21 March 2020. Please see Business Guide Updates for more information.
- MOTs for Cars, Motorbikes and Vans due from 30 March 2020 will be extended for 6-months. Please see Business Guide Updates for more information.
I have a driving test due, what can I do?
Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) are suspending driving tests and motorcycle tests in England, Scotland and Wales for up to 3 months from 21 March 2020. Emergency tests may be available to critical workers which includes those who work in the food and other necessary goods sector.
More information is available in the Business Guide Update.
I cannot complete my required CPC Training due to Coronavirus, what can I do?
Most professional lorry and bus drivers must complete 35-hours of periodic training over 5 years to maintain a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card.
The Department of Transport recognise that some drivers may struggle to fit their required training in and have therefore made temporary changes to the professional driver qualification requirements.
The changes will be in place from 1 March 2020 to 30 September 2020 an include:
- Drivers whose Driver CPC card expires between 1 March 2020 to 30 September 2020 can continue to drive,
- Military drivers will be allowed to drive in civilian situations during this period.
From 1 October 2020, drivers will be expected to comply with the normal Driver CPC rules.
More information is available in the Business Guide Update.