Van Sector 'Driving Excellence'

Accounting for over three million vehicles on our roads and having grown by almost 40 per cent over the last decade, the van fleet sector is one that warrants serious self-regulation.

With the backing of some of the largest van fleet operators in the UK, leading trade body the Freight Transport Association (FTA) looks to establish a comprehensive and realistic code of conduct that will benefit businesses, the environment and all road users.

Richard White, FTA’s Van Project Leader, said: "Businesses and consumers rely heavily on the van industry, which already boasts many shining examples of well-honed and proven van working practices.

"Using that knowledge and having formalised an agreed code of conduct, it is now a question of getting accord from all van operators, large and small."

The Van Excellence Code, which has been developed by the van industry for the van industry, looks to share and formalise working practices that are already used by leading companies in the sector.

Its aim is to provide mandatory and audited parameters for all aspects of van operations including key areas such as driver behaviour, vehicle safety/maintenance and risk assessed operating methods.

With backing and input from some of the largest van fleet operators in the UK as well as commitment from van makers Mercedes, Ford and Nissan, FTA is confident that the Code will set the standard for future working practices.

Signatories to the Code will follow tried and tested operating procedures to improve safety levels, reduce environmental impact and promote professionalism.

White concluded: "As an industry we have the knowledge, the will to improve and the belief in self-regulation that is needed to make the Van Excellence Code work and it will provide those inside and outside the sector with a clear set of standards by which they should expect all vans to be operated.

"By seizing this initiative the sector can help to forge a greener, safer and more professional future."

(PR)