Descartes: get ahead of the curve on DCPC
Fleet operators are being urged to begin planning their drivers’ CPC training now to avoid being impacted by a licensing work backlog predicted to hit the industry within the next 12 months, according to a training industry expert.
Compliance systems provider Descartes cites a recent analysis of DVSA figures of completed CPC hours, which suggested that 2023 and 2024 are likely to see significant numbers of drivers needing to complete their allocation – with an estimate putting the total hours of training required at 16 million.
In light of this, the company offered its perspective on how operators can get ahead of the curve, suggesting that the first step should be to ascertain which drivers require the CPC.
“Operators are unlikely to know this off the top of their head, which is why Descartes’ SmartAnalysis offers a CPC management module to track drivers’ CPC training – whilst SmartLicence also verifies a driver’s CPC whenever a licence check is conducted (manual or scheduled),” explained the company.
“Using technology to help manage and track drivers’ CPC status can help ensure operators don’t get caught out unexpectedly and receive plenty of notice for drivers to complete any outstanding hours of training.”
The next step, says Descartes, is to notify affected drivers and schedule training.
“The sooner it’s on drivers’ radars, the better, and with the impending wave of outstanding CPC training hours it’s best to book in now rather than later,” advised the firm.
“It’s never a good idea to leave something as crucial as this to the last minute.”
Finally, Descartes advises that this process should be maintained going forward.
“Creating processes in compliance is what builds consistency, reliability and trust in your compliance. Ensure you have a process going into the future where you schedule your drivers for CPC training well in advance of deadlines and spread across the CPC window will give the best result for your fleet and your drivers.”
More information on how Descartes can support fleets’ compliance needs can be found at the company’s website.
