DVSA reveals earned recognition pilot participants
The Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has published a full list of all the HGV and PSV operators taking part in the pilot of its earned recognition scheme, which asks fleets to regularly submit evidence of their driver and maintenance compliance to the agency electronically, in exchange for fewer roadside stops.
The firms, whose identities were previously kept under wraps in order to avoid the possibility of bias in blind enforcement checks during the pilot’s earlier stages, are now less likely to see their vehicles stopped for inspections.
Twenty-nine operators have been revealed to have been involved in the pilot, with fleet sizes ranging from two vehicles to more than 3,500.
The list includes several high-profile national fleets holding multiple operator licences – such as 3663 (now Bidfood), Berendsen, BT, Cemex, DPDgroup, Fraikin, John Lewis, Sainsbury’s, Speedy Asset Services and Wincanton.
The municipal sector is represented by Wakefield Council, while eight coach and bus operators are also involved.
Over 100 operator licences are listed in total, covering 6,000 vehicles between them. The full list can be found here.
The DVSA is still accepting applications until the end of February to join the pilot, participants of which will receive additional assistance from the agency to get them through the process. Operators that successfully complete the pilot will be automatically enrolled on the full scheme.
An initial audit is required, as well as IT systems capable of processing vehicle maintenance and drivers’ hours data to the scheme’s specifications. The systems will inform DVSA when key performance indicators (KPIs) are missed – but the agency emphasises that it does not have direct access to fleets’ data or systems, and that will it work with operators to resolve any compliance issues raised.
Full details of how the scheme works are available here, on the gov.uk website.
In addition to reduced roadside checks, fleets on the scheme can cite their ‘exemplary operator’ status when bidding for contracts – and use the DVSA earned recognition marque on their website and other publicity materials.
DVSA chief executive Gareth Llewellyn said: “DVSA’s priority is to protect you from unsafe drivers and vehicles.
“This pilot allows the best operators to go about their business unhindered, so we can target our activity at those most likely to be a danger to all road users.
“I would like to thank everyone who has helped us develop the pilot to the point where operators are starting to see the benefits.”
David Wells, FTA chief executive, added: “Earned recognition will support all compliant operators – not just those accredited – as it allows DVSA to focus its valuable roadside enforcement resource on those who represent a clear and immediate danger to all road users.
“While FTA members are well represented in the pilot cohort, many operators are hoping that being lifted out of targeted enforcement is just the first of many tangible benefits accredited operators in the future will be able to enjoy when the full scheme goes live.“
Image DVSA Crown copyright
