Haulier NEWSLETTER
In this issue...
Logistics stand down
HMRC advice
News on Safety
Driver facing cameras
Looking up - STOP/THINK
Reducing customer/haulage queries
SAFETY NEWS ON
Fliegl ejector trailer
What we are finding is that when they are doing more quantities of dry product such as sand and stone that the headboard and moving floor section requires washing out. Newton Trailers recommends that you wash these parts at least weekly, to prevent buildup and wear of the sliders. Any issues call Kevin on 01525 872466 or Email: kevin@newtontrailers.com
Logistics stand down w/c 16 & 23 September
DON’T GET CAUGHT OUT
Beginning w/c 16th September 2024 our logistics teams along with senior managers will be visiting various plants to engage with your drivers and some of them will even be doing a ride along. This is a great chance for us and your drivers to engage over safety issues.
HMRC advice to the UK haulage industry regarding how to spot avoidance schemes.
HMRC has launched a ‘Tax avoidance: don’t get caught out’ communications campaign targeted at contractors. The campaign advises taxpayers how to spot avoidance schemes, explains the risks involved and how to report a suspicious scheme to HMRC.
Tax avoidance is when people bend the rules of the tax system to try to pay less than they should. But those who join avoidance schemes then end up having to pay the tax due in the first place – as well as interest and potentially penalties.
HMRC wants to stop people being drawn into such schemes as well as help them leave tax avoidance schemes if they believe they might be caught up in one. HMRC is working with a range of organisations to give them the tools to educate contractors on the risks of using tax avoidance schemes.
SAFETY NEWS ON
Tarmac ICH overhead bridge strike
On Tuesday 28 May 2024, an 8 wheeled tipper struck an overhead bridge after delivering coated material to a Surfacing Gang. The vehicle left the paving machine with the body in the raised position and continued to drive 120m before coming into contact with an overhead bridge.
Key Factors:
• The internal contract haulier (ICH) left the paving machine with the body in the raised position
• “Flat before you sign” process was not followed.
• Banksman / Vehicle Marshal did not sign PodFather tablet - ICH signed for the load on behalf of the Contracting Supervisor
• ICH had depressed the PTO lever to lower the body of the truck, the PTO was not engaged properly and failed to lower the truck body
• Body-up buzzer was operational, the driver failed to acknowledge the alarm
• Overhead structure warning signage/cones were inadequate.
Actions to consider:
• “Flat before you sign” procedure to be reinvigorated to the haulage community and to Surfacing Gangs
• Ensure all overhead structures/hazards are identified and controls are in place to warn of the danger
• Logistic team to remind ICH’s of the importance of acknowledging in-cab alarm systems
• HGV drivers to carry out a visual check when discharge of material is complete, to ensure body of truck is fully lowered before driving away from paving machine
• Hauliers to hand over PodFather tablet to banksman, to enable him to sign-off and confirm safe discharge
• Ensure ICH do not sign podFather tablet on behalf of Site Supervisor/Foreman. Banksman/Vehicle Marshall to control this process and only release the vehicle when safe to do so.
Driver facing cameras
ALSO KNOWN AS INWARD-FACING CAMERAS
Driver-facing cameras,
Driver facing cameras offer several advantages for both the driver and the operator (fleet owner or manager). Here are some of the key benefits:
also known as inward-facing cameras, offer several advantages for both the driver and the operator (fleet owner or manager). Here are some of the key benefits
ADVANTAGES FOR THE DRIVER: ADVANTAGES FOR THE OPERATOR (FLEET OWNER/MANAGER):
Improved Safety: Driver-facing cameras encourage safer driving behaviour. Knowing that their actions are being recorded, drivers are more likely to follow traffic rules, avoid distractions, and drive responsibly, reducing the risk of accidents.
Evidence of Innocence: In the event of a collision or an incident, driver-facing cameras can provide evidence to prove the innocence of the driver. This can help protect the driver from false accusations and legal disputes.
Driver Training and Feedback: Driver-facing cameras can be used as a training tool. Operators can review the footage to provide constructive feedback to drivers, helping them improve their skills and safety.
Safety and Liability Reduction: Driver-facing cameras contribute to safer driving practices, reducing accidents and associated liabilities. This can lead to lower insurance premiums and claims.
Insurance Benefits: Some insurance companies offer discounts to fleets equipped with driver-facing cameras as they are seen as a safety enhancement. In addition, the recorded footage can help in claims processing and determining fault.
Incident Investigation: In the event of an accident, driver-facing cameras provide valuable evidence to investigate the cause and determine responsibility. This can be crucial for resolving disputes and insurance claims.
DRIVER-FACING CAMERAS
Deterrence of Misconduct: The presence of driverfacing cameras can deter drivers from engaging in inappropriate or unethical behaviour, such as theft, harassment, or drug use.
Productivity and Efficiency: Fleet managers can monitor driver behaviour and identify areas where drivers can be more efficient. This can lead to fuel
savings, reduced maintenance costs, and improved overall fleet performance.
Compliance: Driver-facing cameras can help ensure drivers are adhering to regulatory compliance and safety standards, reducing the risk of fines or penalties.
Preventive Maintenance: Driver-facing cameras can detect signs of vehicle issues or driver fatigue, allowing operators to take proactive measures to address maintenance needs and prevent accidents.
Security: In the event of theft or unauthorized access to the vehicle, the cameras can capture footage that may aid in identifying the culprits or recovering stolen property.
use of driver-facing cameras must be done with in compliance with relevant laws and regulations. regarding camera usage should be established environment for drivers while reaping the safety and benefits for the fleet operator.
It’s important to note that the use of driver-facing cameras must be done with consideration for driver privacy and in compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Clear communication and policies regarding camera usage should be established to ensure a positive working environment for drivers while reaping the safety and operational benefits of the fleet operator.
offer several advantages for both the driver
Here are some of the key benefits:
It’s important to note that the use of driver-facing consideration for driver privacy and in compliance Clear communication and policies regarding camera to ensure a positive working environment for drivers operational benefits for the fleet
HIGHLIGHTS Safety
It’s not just looking around you but looking above you too.
Obstructions and overhead cables are dangerous, remember to always STOP/THINK or STEP IN if you see someone doing something unsafe.
ENSURE height indicator displayed and ‘Maximum Height’ is known with the body in the raised position. Remember before you move off to lower your body.
Blue cones denote overhead services.
Tipping below or adjacent to overhead services or structures should be avoided where ever possible.
https://issuu.com/tarmacltd/docs/epod_external_
HIGHLIGHTS Safety
Safe loading and unloading aggregate/asphalt
Always – Adhere to any specific loading instructions displayed or given.
Always – Ensure that loads are restrained and distributed safely, as well as being within weight limits.
Always – Be aware of product type and free flowing properties.
Don’t – Overload your vehicle. If a vehicle is found to be overloaded the driver, company and weighbridge clerk operator could be prosecuted or cautioned. Legislation imposes fines of up to £5,000 for each offence. That means a fine for each overloaded axle plus any overloading on the total weight.
What can I do to prevent my vehicle from being overloaded?
• Know the weight of your vehicle
• Know what you are carrying and weight of the load
• Distribute your load appropriately to avoid overloading axles
• Check the Gross Vehicle Weight before setting out
If overloaded?
If you suspect you may be overloaded, discuss with site personnel immediately to assess using site aids available (CCTV, Gantries etc).
WHAT GOOD LOOKS LIKE - when loading vehicles
Ideal loading position prior to delivery
During loading it is highly recommended the vehicle is positioned correctly to ensure discharged material is not in direct contact with the tailboard.
Ideal loading position prior to delivery
It is anticipated that the material may move slightly during transit although would not be expected to be fully against the tailboard.
As we move towards the cooler weather any assistance is much appreciated in ensuring materials are transported as effectively as possible. The use of Warm Mix also requires us all to be vigilant to ensure we do all we can to mitigate the onset of customer complaints. Your support in trying to overcome potential problems before they arise would be much appreciated.
Poor loading position at point of delivery
Void loading directly onto the side walls of the tailboard, doing so is likely to lead to material forming a solid wall.
Unfortunately, a customer presented with this scenario is very likely to complain and reject the material, especially if material was requested for hand lay purposes.
Reducing customer/haulage queries
To ensure accuracy of data and enable us to pay hauliers, it is essential that drivers interact with the device correctly.
All drivers MUST:
Log into PODFather at the start of every shift and out at the end of the shift
• Your username and password by default are the vehicle registration without any spaces
• Failure to log in and out daily will result in us not being able to update the application. This increases the likelihood of problems occurring which will result in downtime whilst the device is fixed and updated.
Press the start job button when you leave the plant to start the delivery.
• This will notify the customer that their load is en-route therefore pressing the button at the wrong time makes this notification inaccurate.
Press the arrived at site button when you arrive at the delivery location
• The information can be used to confirm delivery time in the event of a dispute, so it is essential that the button is pressed at the corresponding point in the delivery process
• The arrival time will also start the time on site recording, used in waiting time calculations.
Press start discharge
• This allows colleagues, customers and hauliers know that the delivery is proceeding.
Always collect the customer’s signature
• If unable to collect signature, the driver must call the office or out of hours and follow the instructions given. It is important that drivers ALWAYS take a photo in circumstances where nobody is available or refuse to sign
• This evidence can be used in the event of the customer disputing delivery.
Press finish discharge
• This is when the time on site recording finishes, used for waiting time calculations
• Note if significant delays are encountered leaving site, then query should be raised.
Press complete the job when ready to leave site
• This triggers the Proof of Delivery to be sent to the customer
• This provides colleagues with useful information and the vehicle can now progress to its next load.
Compliance with the above will minimise the need for intervention/sanctions
Remember - do NOT leave your ePOD tablet in your cab
Any issues with speak to National Haulier Service Desk 01275 512973 or out-of-hours team