Mercedes-Benz Vans and FTA promote LCV safety

Mercedes-Benz Vans and Freight Transport Association (FTA) have joined forces with the police to promote light commercial vehicle (LCV) safety across Northern Ireland.

As well as safety, the new partnership will promote compliancy and efficiency, too.

Delegates have also been told about the support available from FTA’s Van Excellence scheme, receiving tips from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) on how to stay lawful to the rules of the roads.

The Van Excellence scheme was created to recognise excellence and improve safety and efficiency.

Johnny Andrews, fleet business development manager at Mercedes-Benz Northern Ireland Truck and Van, said: “We were delighted to have the opportunity to work with FTA and PSNI to support hard-working van operators and help keep their businesses moving in a safe, compliant manner.”

Alliance Healthcare’s Belfast depot operates a fleet of 31 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans, and has 37 drivers, while putting 1,000 plus vehicles on UK roads.

Gary Nesbitt, driver team manager at Alliance healthcare, said: “We’re already accredited under the Van Excellence scheme so none of this was new to us.

“It’s always useful, though, to hear the messages on safety and compliance reinforced.

“We certainly support FTA’s efforts to bring all operators up to the highest standards, and applaud Mercedes-Benz Vans for supporting such a worthwhile initiative.”

Van Excellence recently partnered with Fleetcheck to improve fleet safety, compliancy and efficiency.

Its feet management software will be on board to enhance Van Excellence’s scheme to promote safe and efficient operations of vans.

Mark Cartwright, head of vans and light commercial vehicles at FTA, said: “Through its intuitive fleet management technology, FleetCheck is making it easier for businesses to keep their operations safe, compliant and efficient - three qualities which are highly valued by the team at Van Excellence.

“We are honoured to be partnering with a company that embodies the same values and aims as us; we look forward to helping even more fleet managers and van operators to discover this indispensable software.”