Driving up awareness with ODSS training
Operator and Driver Support Services Ltd (ODSS) provides a range of training for the road transport sector, covering drivers, transport managers, trainers and directors.
One recent addition to its portfolio focuses on helping transport managers and supervisors understand brake test reports. The course is intended for those who need to review reports as part of their compliance role, rather than engineers or workshop staff.
ODSS says the programme is deliberately non-technical, using straightforward language and practical examples to explain what a brake test report is showing and how to recognise potential concerns. Delegates work through examples of both satisfactory and unsatisfactory reports and complete practical exercises. Delivery can be classroom-based or online and adapted to suit different operating environments.
Load safety and security is another area highlighted by ODSS as frequently misunderstood within the industry. The company notes that, while responsibility for safe loading is well established in law, levels of understanding vary widely across operators and drivers.
“Load safety and load security rules have changed many times over the years,” the company says. “Training needs to reflect current guidance and enforcement expectations.”
Its load safety and security training covers legislation, roles and responsibilities, basic principles of load restraint, the use of securing equipment and enforcement practices. Sessions can be delivered on operators’ sites and are applicable to a wide range of vehicle types, from pick-ups through to articulated vehicles.
ODSS points out that drivers often rely on informal learning rather than structured training when it comes to securing loads, which can lead to unsafe practices becoming normalised over time. Recent updates to guidance have added to the risk of misunderstandings around legal obligations.
Beyond these programmes, ODSS delivers a variety of other transport-related training, including Transport Manager CPC, Driver CPC, train-the-trainer courses, dangerous goods awareness and operator licence awareness training for directors and senior managers. Driver-focused options include yard shunter training, reversing assistance, longer semi-trailer awareness, alternative fuel vehicle awareness and trailer safety.
Alongside training, ODSS also provides operator support services such as compliance consultancy, assistance with operator licence applications, audit preparation, traffic commissioner-style audits, driver gate checks, and tachograph and drivers’ hours support. The company is an authorised audit provider for DVSA Earned Recognition and supports operators with scheme preparation, systems and procedures.
