The Role of a Transport Manager: Accountability, Professional Oversight, and Why It Matters:

Welcome back to our newsletter! Last time, we promised a closer look into what it takes to be a transport manager, the responsibilities involved, and why this role is so crucial in modern fleet management. Transport management goes far beyond just keeping vehicles on the road — it’s a dynamic role that’s essential for ensuring safety, compliance, and efficiency across the entire fleet operation.

Here’s an in-depth look at the key areas a transport manager oversees:

1. Ensuring Driver and Vehicle Compliance:

A transport manager’s top priority is maintaining strict compliance across drivers and vehicles:

• Licence and Qualification Checks: Ensuring drivers hold the correct, valid licenses and are adequately trained, including EU drivers who need to register their licences with the DVLA. Regular checks and record-keeping are essential to make sure that every driver is qualified and ready to operate safely.

• Driver CPC and Ongoing Training: Transport managers also oversee drivers’ Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) compliance and provide additional training where necessary. This ensures drivers are not only certified but are continually developing the skills needed for safe, effective driving.

Upcoming TM CPC Course: Looking to enhance your skills and qualifications?

Join our upcoming Transport Manager course in either Road Haulage or Passenger Transport for SEG Awards Level 3 on 25th November.

Transport Manager HGV - CPC - View/Book

Transport Manager PSV - CPC - View/Book

2. Monitoring Drivers’ Hours and Safety Compliance:

Ensuring adherence to driving hours and rest regulations is critical to avoid accidents due to fatigue and to stay compliant with the law:

• Tracking Hours and Breaks: Transport managers monitor drivers’ hours, breaks, and rest periods according to specific regulations. Records are kept through tachographs and regularly inspected to prevent violations.

• Maintaining Records: Keeping thorough records of hours, breaks, and rest periods ensures that drivers aren’t overworked. Tachograph data must be regularly downloaded, stored, and made available for inspections, with working time records kept for at least two years.

3. Vehicle Maintenance and Safety Inspections:

Keeping vehicles roadworthy is one of the most important aspects of the role, as it directly impacts safety and compliance:

• Scheduled Maintenance and Testing: Regular inspections, maintenance, and MOTs are planned in advance, with schedules displayed to ensure statutory requirements are met. Any missed inspection could result in compliance issues or put drivers and others at risk.

• Maintenance Records: Maintenance records are kept for a minimum of 15 months and must be readily available if requested by traffic commissioners.

4. Handling Licences, Documents, and Safety Checks:

Transport managers manage essential documents and checks that ensure vehicles remain compliant and safe:

• Operator Licence Requirements: Vehicle details on operator licences must remain current, and operator discs need to be up-to-date and displayed properly.

• Safety Checks: Daily checks are completed by drivers to report any defects, with the transport manager ensuring that all identified issues are promptly addressed.

5. Continuous Professional Development and Industry Knowledge:

Staying informed and up-to-date on laws and best practices is a requirement for transport managers. With new regulations and industry standards continually evolving, the most effective transport managers are those who prioritize learning and professional development:

• Legal and Compliance Knowledge:

Transport managers need expertise in civil, commercial, and fiscal law, as well as road safety and technical standards.

• Accountability: As the accountable authority, transport managers may face public inquiries if safety regulations are breached, which could lead to additional training or even a suspension of their role.

The role of a transport manager is one of high responsibility, blending technical knowledge with an unwavering commitment to safety and compliance. This role is not only essential for the smooth operation of any fleet but is also pivotal in setting a high standard for safety, legality, and efficiency across the industry.

Get in touch if you have any questions or need help.

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