Specialist workers may be exempt from Driver CPC

Scaffolding erectors, utilities workers, road builders and plant operators who drive trucks in their job may be able to claim 'tools of the trade' exemption from the Driver CPC requirements, which come into effect in September, according to the FTA.

Speaking at the FTA's Essential Services Working Group and Utilities Seminar this month, FTA transport adviser Es Shepherd says the likes of scaffolding gangs can also travel in the truck, but that the goods carried on the truck must be for the use of the driver and occupants - additional drops along the route are not allowed.

The exemption can apply to any size of truck and is not restricted by speed or distance from base. Drivers of specialist machinery, such as road building equipment, are also exempt from the Driver CPC, but fitters taking trucks to a test station will require the qualification.