11 December 2020
The Department for Transport (DfT) have introduced a temporary relaxation of the enforcement of EU Drivers hours rules in England, Scotland and Wales, but urge drivers not to compromise on safety.
Initial feedback on the decision across the driving community hasn't been popular, but as operators it is important to stay tuned with the details, so we've shared some of the highlights below.
WHY HAS THIS HAPPENED?
As a result of urgent and exceptional circumstances relating to certain road transport operations, including port congestion, unusual demand patterns and impact of Covid-19, the DfT have responded to the pressures they see on both national and local supply chains over the festive period.
The EU drivers hours regulation is there to enforce safety on the roads - setting restrictions on driving hours per day/week and required breaks within set time frames.
But the temporary relaxation, which runs from 10th December until 30th December does not apply to everyone. According to the UK government, the relaxation applies to drivers in Great Britain involved in the following:
It does not apply to drivers not subject to tachograph controls. E.g. most deliveries directly to the consumer.
HOW ARE THE HOURS BEING RELAXED?
This relaxation must not be used in combination with existing rules for international driving, which allow for 2 consecutive reduced weekly rest breaks in certain circumstances. It is not recommended this relaxation be used for drivers engaged partly in international journeys.
The practical implementation, is stated, should be through an agreement between employer, employee and driver representatives.
Should an operator choose to use the relaxation period, they must notify the DfT by completing a series of paperwork. Details of which are linked below.
To find out more about the government relaxation on drivers hours visit their website.
Find out more