Furloughed drivers can use the time off work as an opportunity to brush up on their driving awareness knowledge through e-learning, helping to reduce risks on the return to work.
Terry Hiles, general manager at Licence Check, said the move would particularly benefit drivers identified as higher risk, who could improve their awareness of rules and regulations.
Under HMRC furlough rules, training is permitted, but employees must not provide services or make money for their employer.
As such, training in driver safety, improving driver behaviour, road safety, and reduction in accidents and incidents, would be permitted, provided this were not mandated by employers as a furlough requirement.
Furthermore, the time off work could provide employees with a calmer and more conducive learning environment than might otherwise be the case, according to Licence Check, whose recently launched e-learning programme can be completed remotely, helping improve driver behaviour and decrease the firm’s overall risk score.
Hiles said: “This is a very challenging time for companies globally, yet amongst all the chaos, many cogs are still turning.
“The vast majority of businesses have now asked that employees work remotely – but this is still an opportunity to carry out key housekeeping tasks that you may not normally have chance or the time to consider. When we emerge from the current situation, such housekeeping will ensure they are prepared for the re-boot and will pay dividends in the future.
“Systems like DAVIS that are web-based mean that managers can access the complete licence checking service from home, whilst the latest apps provide the flexibility to check on driver and vehicle risk remotely as required.
“That way, the appropriate steps can be taken to ensure drivers are operating safely and legally and that the company is meeting its duty of care obligations – vitally important in these unprecedented times.”
