Freight Best Practice - Anne Johnson
Issue: Autumn 2009
As a newcomer to the Freight Best Practice team I have been bowled over by the breadth and range of the information published by the programme.
It has evolved and moved on from purely paper-based guides, to produce DVDs, audio CDs and an on-line resource centre. This all adds up to an exceptional skills development resource for managers and drivers, which in view of the new driver CPC, is particularly timely.
I’m sure you’ll agree, in industry effective communication and collaboration through the supply chain is essential to ensure efficiency in delivering a quality and cost effective service. Freight Best Practice is no different and as such we work closely with key industry organisations and trade bodies across all surface modes to ensure our activities and ‘products’ are relevant, respected and reach the widest audience possible. A good example of this is working with truck manufacturers to develop glove box material on safe and fuel efficient driving.
We’ve also recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Skills for Logistics, which has led to a more effective working relationship between both organisations at all levels. The timing of the signing was planned in anticipation of the 10th September introduction of the Driver CPC which brings compulsory training for the UK’s heavy goods vehicle drivers.
By working directly with Skills for Logistics and to aid both drivers undergoing training and trainers delivering training, the entire Freight Best Practice catalogue has been reviewed and relevant publications mapped against the Driver CPC syllabus (which is outlined opposite). This means the programme has a wealth of relevant, free and accessible material that can be incorporated and used within the training modules.
While there is no doubt that meeting the Driver CPC requirements presents a challenge for the industry, it does provide a new opportunity to focus on and promote fuel and cost saving practices as well as safety and other measures which in turn can reap benefits for operators. From trainers and drivers to transport managers and shippers, the Freight Best Practice programme provides a huge variety of free resources to help you manage carbon outputs and save money.
If you haven’t yet used the programme then why not have a look at www. freightbestpractice.org.uk and give it a try. And don’t forget, we are keen to keep it packed with ‘best in class’ case studies from the freight industry – I would be delighted to hear from you about your own innovative solutions to today’s transport challenges.
Anne Johnson is spokesperson for the Freight Best Practice Programme and principal consultant for the transport and engineering consultancy AECOM.
For further information, contact Anne via e-mail: anne.johnson@aecom.com or visit www.freightbestpractice.org.uk
Published: 05/10/2009
