Coronavirus: Safe Loading Pass Scheme extensions granted

The Safe Loading Pass Scheme (SLPS) Management Group has announced it is providing extensions on Safe Loading Passes soon to expire.

The SLPS is administered by the Freight Transport Association (FTA), the business group representing the logistics sector.

All vehicle Safe Loading Passes, which expire between March 25 and June 25, will now remain valid until July 25. Hauliers will have until this date to carry out a SLPS inspection on vehicles where passes were extended during this period. 

Vehicles must be correctly maintained, kept safe to load at terminals and operate within the terms of operators’ licence conditions, it said. 

Sharon Mitchell, head of audits and standards at FTA, said: “Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the team at the SLPS is determined to play its part in helping individuals to stay safe while ensuring business can continue to run as smoothly as possible; our decision to extend temporarily the SLPS expiration dates will assist industry greatly.

“We urge all drivers, inspection companies, terminal staff and employees to take seriously the safety precautions outlined by government; we will also be monitoring closely government guidance.”

The SLPS identifies the vehicles and trailers that meet the safety standards required for admittance to fuel and gas loading terminals.

The scheme is recognised by members of the UK Petroleum Industries Association (UKPIA) and the Tank Storage Association (TSA).

For more information on the Safe Loading Pass Scheme please visit www.safeloadingpass.co.uk.