The Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) has unveiled a new training package designed to help fleet operators better manage driver fatigue.

Time Smart is the latest addition to the FORS Professional training portfolio and comprises a toolkit and two interactive learning webinars, Time Smart - Fatigue Management and Time Smart –Drivers’ Hours.

The learning package is designed for FORS members who have direct line management responsibilities for driver shift planning, monitoring of fatigue and ensuring compliance with drivers’ hours regulations. This includes shift supervisors, transport managers, owner operators and those with line management responsibility.

It has been designed to help supervisors and managers of all vehicle types adopt industry best practice regarding both fatigue and drivers’ hours management.

Renown Consultants was found guilty of breaches of the Health and Safety at Work Act in relation to the deaths of two drivers it employed at Nottingham Crown Court, in March.

Renown was ordered to pay £750k after it failed to ensure the safety of its drivers. 

The information will also help FORS operators understand how to meet the requirements for drivers’ hours and driver health at FORS Bronze, the first level of the progressive accreditation.

John Hix, director of the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme, said: “The new Time Smart toolkit provides a welcome training solution on a topic not previously covered within the broad FORS Professional portfolio.

“Driver safety is crucial for all road transport operators and is a guiding principle that sits at the heart of FORS. Effective time management as explored in the new FORS Time Smart toolkit will ensure members are able to fulfil their legal obligations to driver fatigue management and improve the safety of their drivers and all road users.

“We hope that FORS members will make the most of their membership by downloading this useful online resource and by booking onto the discounted.”

FORS Professional Time Smart - Drivers’ Hours Management webinar provides an overview of EU drivers’ hours, UK hours and AETR regulations, details on which tachograph recording equipment must be used, how best to record and manage drivers’ hours and relevant operator licensing requirements, specifically for HGV, PCV and mixed-fleet managers.

FORS Professional Time Smart - Fatigue Management highlights the factors that can influence fatigue, such as medical conditions, while outlining the responsibilities a company has in managing fatigue.

The module also provides details on the legislative requirements of fatigue management and the importance of effective shift planning.

The information will also help FORS operators understand how to meet the requirements for drivers’ hours and driver health at FORS Bronze, the first level of the progressive accreditation.

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