Driver Training for Timber Haulage · Issue 3, June 2010 (Timber Transport Forum version) 6...

Driver Training for Timber Haulage

Issue 3, June 2010 (Timber Transport Forum version) 1

Acknowledgements This driver training material was initially developed by AEA consultants as ‘the SAFED for Timber Haulage training programme’. The following organisations contributed to its development:

Scottish Enterprise Dumfries and Galloway Council Timber Transport Forum The Forestry Commission John Miller Transport Trainers Commercial Transport Training Services, CTTS Drivers John Miller Limited: David Martsch Jim Penny Clifford Smithers William Kennedy Daniel Clark James Warrick Jonathan Somers William Laverie D.W. Telfer: David Rutherford David Telfer A.J. Scott: Derek Cockburn P.A. Laing: James McKay Robert Tweedle: John Simpson


Contents 1 Background

1.1 Introduction to Driver Training for Timber Haulage (background and aim) 1.2 How was Driver Training for Timber Haulage developed? 1.3 Why was Driver Training for Timber Haulage developed? 1.4 Who is this guide aimed at? 1.5 Who should deliver the Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme? 1.6 How should this guide be used? 1.7 Information and material for instructors 1.8 Information for candidates

2 Essential core information

2.1 Benefits of safe and fuel efficient driving 2.2 Fundamentals of safe and fuel efficient driving 2.3 Tips for success on the Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme 2.4 Agreed routes 2.5 Signage 2.6 Load weighing devices 2.7 Load recognition 2.8 PIN

3 Training Programme and Assessment Material

3.1 Training Programme Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme timetable

3.2 Assessment material Document 1: Assessment guide Document 2: Vehicle safety check sheet Document 3: Trailer safety check sheet Document 4: Crane safety check sheet Document 5: Theory test paper A – safe driving Document 6: Theory test paper B – fuel efficient driving Document 7: General assessment report Document 8: Employer feedback report Document 9: Evaluation form


Background According to Government statistics, the UK’s 422,000 Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) travelled approximately 22.2 billion kilometres in 2001. Assuming an average fuel consumption figure of 8 miles per gallon, each vehicle used over 4,000 gallons (approx 18,160 litres) of fuel. Monitoring and managing the fuel used by their vehicles is vital for a professional operator. By implementing a fuel management programme, a fleet’s fuel consumption can typically be reduced by at least 5%, with an equivalent cost saving. Use of safe and fuel efficient driving techniques as part of a fuel management process will contribute to this fuel saving. Reducing fuel consumption by 1,000 litres per year will:

Save an operator £950 a year (assuming a price of £0.95 per litre)

Save 2.6 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions a year Using fuel more efficiently means:

Lower costs

Improved profit margins

Reduced emissions

Improved environmental performance In 2001, there were 19,159 casualties in HGV road accidents. Of the 575 killed in accidents involving an HGV, just 54 were occupants of the HGV - a fifth of fatalities were cyclists and pedestrians. Safer driving means:

Fewer injuries and fatalities on our roads

Less accident damage to vehicles

Less unproductive downtime for vehicle repair

Reduced insurance premiums Introduction to Driver Training for Timber Haulage Driver Training for Timber Haulage has been designed to improve the safe and fuel efficient driving techniques of timber haulage drivers. The Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme has been developed specifically to provide training and development for existing timber haulage drivers. The programme aims to improve driver operational awareness relating to:

All safety aspects of timber haulage

Vehicle craft

Forest operations

Road and ‘off-tarmac’ craft

Delivery at site All modern vehicles are designed, engineered and manufactured to produce high levels of performance and economy. Often drivers are unaware of the full capabilities of their vehicle. It is important, therefore, that drivers are instructed and shown how to operate their vehicles in order to achieve optimal performance. This is a core part of the Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme. Ideally, training should be performed in a candidate’s own (or usual) vehicle. Candidates will benefit from training in a loaded vehicle. There is a safety awareness presentation and then a qualified instructor assesses the candidate’s driving. Training on best practice in safe and fuel efficient driving techniques is then given. The candidate’s driving is then reassessed to record improvements in driving performance and actual fuel consumption. During both the initial and second assessment, the candidate is assessed for safe working practices, on public roads, off tarmac and during the loading and unloading processes. The aim of the Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme is to increase the efficiency, safety and environmental standards of timber transport in the UK. This will also have the added benefit of increasing the competitiveness of the industry.


How was Driver Training for Timber Haulage developed? The AEA Group, in conjunction with a steering group of industry experts, CTTS a driver training company and relevant stakeholders, created this training programme for the Round Timber Haulage Driver Training Steering Group. Driver Training for Timber Haulage was developed from the existing SAFED programme. In order to create a programme specific to timber haulage, the AEA Group made use of the existing timber haulage standard, ‘Road Haulage of Round Timber Code of Practice’, and the existing Forestry Commission best practice guide. By drawing on these two existing standards and the best practice guide, it was possible to create a robust and relevant periodic training programme for timber haulage drivers. The programme was initially developed as a pilot programme. The candidates for the pilot programme came from timber haulage companies operating in Dumfries and Galloway, in the south of Scotland. Drivers came from a range of companies, from large companies down to individual owner operators.

Why was Driver Training for Timber Haulage developed? The safe and efficient transport of timber is crucial to sustaining and expanding Britain’s forest industry. Road transport is the single most important mode of timber transport and over 90% of all timber arrives at processing plants by lorry. Timber transport costs represent a substantial part of industry’s raw material costs and have a major influence on the sector’s overall competitiveness. Developing an efficient timber transport system is therefore crucial to the future success of the forest industry. Road haulage will remain the dominant mode of timber transportation. Even for rail and waterway modes the first leg of the journey from the forest will normally need to be by lorry. Developing the necessary infrastructure for timber transport in Great Britain represents a challenge. The volume of timber produced annually from British forests is forecast to rise to 15 million cubic metres by 2020. The forest industry has risen to the challenge. One of the most significant achievements to date has been the establishment of basic standards for road haulage. A Code of Practice was published in 1996 and revised in 1998 and 2003. The introduction of CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) legislation now means that all HGV drivers must undertake 35 hours of approved, periodic training every 5 years. The EU passed the Driver CPC EU Directive in 2003. This Directive will become effective from 10 September 2009 for the LGV sector. The absence of a suitable periodic training course specific to timber haulage spurred the Forestry Commission to take action. The AEA Group was contracted to create a suitable training course, specific to timber haulage, based on the existing SAFED programme, which would meet the requirements of the Joint Approvals Unit for Period Training (JAUPT).


Who is this guide aimed at? This guide is aimed at timber haulage drivers wishing to comply with the CPC Directive for periodic training. This Guide is written for training providers, operators, in-house driver trainers and candidates. It outlines the principles of Driver Training for Timber Haulage and provides a step-by-step guide through the one-day Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme. The Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme should be considered as a baseline for the development of driver skills and knowledge, specifically in the areas of safety and fuel efficiency. Operators and training providers may choose to build upon the information, methodology and techniques contained in this document to develop their own more advanced programmes. The Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme aims to promote best practice in safe and fuel efficient driving, leading to:

Reduced accidents and incidents

Reduced vehicle running costs

Improved standards

Improved safety Who should deliver the Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme? The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) administers a voluntary register of HGV driving instructors. The process of voluntary DSA registration for instructors involves assessment in three areas of proficiency, namely:

Theory test

Driving ability

Instructional ability A prospective instructor must have successfully completed the DSA voluntary registration process. In order for this programme to count as periodic training, each prospective instruction company must be approved to provide this training programme by the JAUPT. How should this guide be used? The Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme is a supplementary driver development programme, consisting of instruction and assessment. It intends to improve the safe and fuel efficient driving skills of drivers already in possession of a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) driving licence. This guide is highly specific in its nature, focusing on safe and fuel efficient driver training. It should be considered as an integral component of a much broader programme of commercial vehicle fleet efficiency management. This guide contains the basic information to enable both training providers and vehicle operators to deliver the Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme. It will also be issued to candidates before training and will be used to record their personal performance throughout the day. The essential core information on safe and fuel efficient driving techniques will underpin all classroom and practical instruction given by instructors to candidates throughout the training day. It is vital that instructors have a detailed knowledge of this core information. Documents required throughout the training day have also been included in this Guide. It is essential that instructors fully understand how, when and why each document is used within the programme. Instructors will, throughout the training day, complete the relevant documents in each candidate’s guide.


Information and material for instructors The basic information needed by instructors to deliver the Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme is included within this Guide. Section 2 contains the core information and principles that underpin the whole training day. Section 3 contains the timetable, assessment guide and other relevant documentation. General information about driving tuition is available from the DSA at www.dsa.gov.uk.

Essential Core Information (Section 2)

The Benefits of safe and fuel efficient driving - highlighting the advantages of safe and fuel efficient driving to drivers, operators and the environment

The Fundamentals of safe and fuel efficient driving - the core themes of the day’s training programme

Tips for Success on the Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme - a quick reference guide for candidates

There are further subsections containing important, timber haulage specific, information. Both the instructor and the candidate must understand and obey the legislation and follow the good practice contained within all the subsections.

Training Programme and Assessment Material (Section 3)

Overview of the training programme - a timetable of the day’s events

Assessment Guide (Document 1) - guidance to be used primarily by instructors when assessing candidates

Vehicle Safety Check Sheet (Document 2) - to be completed by candidates before their on-road assessment

Trailer Safety Check Sheet (Document 3) - if applicable, to be completed by candidates before their on-road assessment

Crane Safety Check Sheet (Document 4) - to be completed by candidates before their on-road assessment

Sample Theory Test Paper A - Safe Driving (Document 5) and

Sample Theory Test Paper B - Fuel Efficient Driving (Document 6) - examples of the two theory exercises to be completed by candidates

General Assessment Report (Document 7) - the master reporting document, used by the instructor to record all performance details and to determine the candidate’s overall grade

Employer Feedback Form (Document 8) - to be completed by instructors providing feedback on the candidate’s performance for the employer

Evaluation Form (Document 9) - a feedback form to be completed by candidates


Information for candidates Before attending your Driver Training for Timber Haulage, candidates will be asked to provide details on the type of vehicle they generally drive. This is done to make sure that the training vehicle (if not their own vehicle) is appropriate. It is expected that almost all timber haulage drivers will be able to provide a suitable vehicle for the training day. Candidates should spend some time prior to the training day becoming familiar with the concepts within the guide. For example, by reading the Assessment Guide (Document 2) candidates will understand what is expected of them during the practical driving assessments. They should then enter their personal details in the appropriate sections. On the training day candidates will need to bring:

Their copy of this guide

Driving licence

Lorry mounted crane licence/certificate

Tachograph charts for the current fixed week and for the last day driven on the previous fixed week

Normal working uniform (non snag clothing)

Personal Protective Equipment Tip - In order to monitor a candidate’s performance after training, employers should record a candidate’s fuel consumption (miles per gallon or kilometres per litre) for a given period (e.g. a week or a fortnight) prior to attendance at Driver Training for Timber Haulage. This pre-training figure will provide the benchmark for future performance. Fuel consumption should then be monitored after training. This data will illustrate the benefits of the Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme to both employers and candidates. Essential core information The following sections form the core principles of the Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme. Candidates’ success on the Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme will depend on both understanding the following information and putting it into practice. It is vital that instructors who deliver the Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme fully understand these elements and convey their importance to candidates throughout the training programme. Benefits of safe and fuel efficient driving For Timber Haulage Drivers Drivers develop skills that promote their safety and that of their vehicle, load and other road and forest users. Through fuel efficient driving, drivers raise their levels of professionalism and become more of an asset to their employer. Personal benefits include:

Reduced stress levels and enhanced satisfaction of driving

Increased confidence in vehicle control and driving performance For Operators By developing the skills of their timber haulage drivers, employers benefit due to:

Reduced fuel spend

Increased productivity and vehicle utilisation

Improved resale value of fleet

Reduced running costs (particularly relating to maintenance and tyres)

Potential reductions in insurance premiums For Organisations and the Environment Safe and fuel efficient driving contributes to:

The development of a health and safety culture within an organisation

Effective risk management Reducing CO2 and other harmful vehicle emissions

Reducing vehicle and personal injury accidents/incidents


Fundamentals of safe and fuel efficient driving Safe and fuel efficient driving involves many separate components and the following section outlines the key factors to be addressed to both ensure safety and optimise fuel economy. This is a comprehensive list intended for the use of instructors and candidates and provides a background to the issues likely to arise during candidate assessments. Adjustable Aerodynamics Many articulated tractor units have adjustable roof mounted air deflectors. This is because, over time, the unit will probably be coupled to trailers of varying heights. The roof mounted air deflector should be adjusted to guide airflow over the highest point at the front of the trailer or load. As a rule of thumb, remember that for every ten centimetres of the front of the trailer exposed to airflow, the fuel consumption will worsen by 0.1 mile per gallon (mpg). For more information on Aerodynamics, order the Freight Best Practice guide on Truck Aerodynamic Styling from the Hotline on 0845 877 0 877. Fact - Correctly adjusted air deflectors will save fuel. Braking In most cases, when the footbrake is used, the road speed that has been lost has to be made up by using the accelerator pedal, thereby burning fuel. If it becomes necessary to change down a gear or half gear then even more fuel is used. By braking smoothly and progressively the amount of road speed that is lost can be minimised (and can help avoid having to stop completely). Harsh braking uses more fuel and requires an increase in the number of gear changes that the driver subsequently has to make. The load is also more likely to shift under heavy braking. Fact - Smooth and progressive braking will save fuel and reduce stress on the driver, vehicle and load. Clutch Control Engaging and disengaging the clutch twice will halve the life of friction surfaces. This technique is only necessary for crash boxes. When changing down a gear, drivers usually ‘blip’ the throttle to get the shafts in the gearbox to rotate at the same speeds. Where a vehicle has a synchromesh gearbox this ‘blipping’ is merely wasting fuel. When changing up a gear, double-declutching simply increases clutch wear. Fact - Double-declutching is not necessary on synchromesh gearboxes. It increases clutch wear and wastes fuel. Cruise Control Cruise control will help to optimise the electronic control system’s ability to deliver the appropriate amount of fuel for any given situation, thus improving fuel efficiency. Remember, cruise control doesn’t have eyes! Fact - To maximise fuel economy, cruise control should be used whenever safe and appropriate. Exhaust Brake When the exhaust brake is activated, the vehicle engine acts as a compressor. This action will, through the transmission system, cause the vehicle’s driven wheels to slow. The effective engine speed range over which the exhaust brake will work is usually indicated on the tachometer. By using this system instead of the footbrake, brake lining life is extended. When the exhaust brake is applied, fuel delivery to the combustion chamber is halted. The vehicle is driven forward by its own momentum, so there is no need for fuel to be burnt. In addition, by making the engine work as a compressor, the combustion chamber is hotter than it would be if the driver were simply to take his foot off the accelerator and depress the footbrake. As a result, when fuel is injected back into the combustion chamber it will atomise more efficiently than it would do in a cooler chamber. Fact - Use of the exhaust brake will contribute to smoother decreases in speed, increase the lifespan of brake linings and save fuel. Forward Planning Every time you drop down a gear, fuel consumption increases due to the effect of the gearing ratios. Forward planning helps to reduce excessive gear changes. This is especially important when approaching junctions and roundabouts. Use the visibility advantage provided by the high seating position in a truck. Moving a vehicle from standstill will require considerably more fuel than keeping a vehicle moving, even at walking pace. Good forward planning improves your safety and that of other road users. Fact - By planning well ahead and keeping the vehicle moving, gear changes will be reduced and fuel will be saved. Forward planning also helps to improve road safety.


Gear Selection ‘Gear High, Rev Low’ is a key phrase. The green band indicates fuel economy. Remember, if you drive the vehicle keeping the needle at the high end of the green band, fuel consumption would be dramatically improved by changing up a gear, thus reducing the engine revs whilst still staying in the green band. Fact - Keeping the engine speed within the green band and using the highest gear possible optimises fuel consumption. Hazards Awareness is essential to road safety. It also enables early selection of the gear and speed appropriate for the situation, allowing good progress to be made. The result is a safe and economical drive. Using the correct gear, engine speed and position for any given situation also results in a more environmentally friendly operation. Fact - Use of information gained through observation gives more time to plan ahead and systematically avoid hazards. Height of the Load Minimising the height of the load will save fuel by reducing the drag coefficient of the vehicle. This is particularly relevant when using a flat-bodied vehicle or trailer. For more information on aerodynamics, order the Freight Best Practice guide on Truck Aerodynamic Styling from the Hotline on 0845 877 0 877. Fact - The height of a trailer or load should be kept to a minimum to reduce aerodynamic drag. Positioning a Load The load should be positioned to reduce aerodynamic drag whilst avoiding overloading any axles on the vehicle or trailer. Fact - The positioning of a load, particularly on a flat trailer, can influence fuel consumption. Skip Gears or Block Changes Even when a vehicle is fully laden, it is not normally necessary to use every gear. The quicker you move up the gearbox to top gear, the more fuel you will save. As a rough rule of thumb, every time you change up a gear you improve fuel consumption by somewhere between ten and thirty percent. Reducing the number of gear changes also means that the driver saves time and energy. Fact - The fewer the gear changes, the less the physical activity needed by the driver and the more fuel efficient the operation. Overfilling of Fuel Tank Fuel expands when it is hot. It can be heated by both the sun and by fuel returned from the engine or fuel system. If you fill the fuel tank to the brim, then when the fuel expands, its only way of escape is via the breather vent. Fact - Overfilling the fuel tank allows fuel to leak through the breather. Momentum Momentum allows the engine to run more efficiently and puts less strain on engine components. The speed gathered under power can be used to descend hills on undulating roads without the use of the accelerator. On modern, electronically controlled vehicles, when the foot is taken off the accelerator, fuel stops entering the combustion chamber. The vehicle is still moving, but using no fuel. At this point, on-board computers capable of showing instantaneous fuel consumption will indicate the highest possible reading. This is usually shown as 99.9 mpg. Fact - Using the momentum of the vehicle will save fuel. Speeding Speeding is dangerous. It puts your life and the lives of other road users at risk. In addition, due to the importance of road speed in aerodynamic efficiency, speeding will have negative effects on fuel economy due to increased aerodynamic drag. Excessive speeding can also put extra stress on the engine and transmission system, resulting in shorter component life. Your road speed has the greatest impact on fuel efficiency. As your road speed increases, so does the air resistance. As a rule of thumb, for each 1mph increase in road speed, the engine revs increase and fuel efficiency decreases by 0.1mpg. Remember, reducing your speed will, in general, make little difference on your overall journey time. Fact - Speeding is illegal, jeopardises road safety and reduces fuel efficiency


Low Revs, Low Noise, Low Emissions Lower revs give higher levels of fuel economy and are less stressful for the driver. The use of appropriate horsepower engines (to avoid engine strain) and computer controlled engine management systems reduces noise levels and assists in maximising fuel economy. Fact - Quiet operations produce less air pollution. Motorways and Dual Carriageways The use of constant speeds on motorways and dual carriageways will enable full use of cruise control, leading to less gear changes. This will result in a safer, more consistent and more economical drive. Wear and tear on the engine and running gear will be reduced and the vehicle will be able to run at its most economical rate. Tyres Under inflated tyres will reduce mpg and increase wear, thereby reducing tyre life and increasing running costs. As a rule, for every 10psi that tyres are under-inflated, you will experience a 1% increase in fuel consumption. Vehicle Technology Vehicle technology advances rapidly. Read the vehicle’s handbook to ensure you are fully up-to-date with the systems installed. Telematics can also be a useful tool to help improve operational efficiency. For more information, order the Freight Best Practice guide on Telematics from the Hotline on 0845 877 0 877. Weather Conditions Inclement weather reduces fuel economy, so the driver trained to adjust driving technique to suit conditions will be able to minimise reductions in fuel economy and will be safer. Hills If you can climb a hill without changing gear then do so. If the engine revs drop, then just let the engine ‘lug’ up the hill. You will still climb the hill faster. Do not accelerate at the crest of the hill, instead use the vehicle momentum and avoid unnecessary braking. Use the exhaust or engine brake where appropriate Engine Idling The time you spend with your engine idling will affect your fuel efficiency figures. Only have your engine running if absolutely necessary. Start your engine when you are ready to move off. On cold days drive off immediately and allow the engine to warm while you use medium range revs. If you leave an engine idling it will use approximately 2 litres of fuel every hour. With modern engines it is not necessary to allow the engine to idle before switching off. Remember, if you are parking up for 3 minutes or more, to switch off your engine.

Safety Safety is of absolute importance at all times. At the beginning of each day’s work, ensure you conduct a safety check of your vehicle, trailer and crane. If you are the only person who uses the vehicle, there is no need to open out the crane. Visual checks are sufficicent. It is good practice to grease the relevant grease points once every week. All vehicles should carry a pollution prevention kit. If you are tired, take a break but you must observe the law and take your minimum breaks. Do not take risks (high mileage drivers take more risks than other drivers). You, as the driver are responsible for keeping within the law at all times when driving the vehicle. Throughout the Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme, the driver is not under basic instruction and will have full control of the vehicle during the road drive at all times. Risk Assessment Operating on harvesting sites can be dangerous. Every site you work on ought to have a risk assessment for the site. Site specific risk assessments can be found at the entrance to most sites. On Forestry Commission lands the Forestry Work Manager is responsible for ensuring all drivers have access to the appropriate risk assessment. You must understand and follow the advice in the risk assessments for all sites you work on. If you have not received a copy of the necessary risk assessments, speak to your operations manager


Lone Working When lone working it is vital to always be aware of, and follow, best practice. You are, therefore, strongly advised to notify someone of where you are going, what your planned route is and at what time you plan to return. If you are going to a location where there is no mobile telephone reception, you should have a designated person to call before you go out of reception. You should advise this person of your location, route and how long you will be out of reception. Once you have returned to a location with good reception you should once more call your designated person and inform them of your safe return. PPE Throughout the working day, drivers must wear Personal Protective Equipment appropriate for the task they are carrying out. You should ensure that your PPE is kept clean and in good condition. The following is a list of PPE that may be required throughout the day.

Hard hat

High visibility jacket

Steel toe capped boots

Gloves

Non snag clothing Off-tarmac Driving When driving on forest roads it is important to adhere to speed limits and to avoid driving close to the road edge. It may be necessary to use the vehicle hazard lights while in the forest. Forest roads are not restrained in the same manner as public roads and can be prone to collapse if due care is not taken when using them. While the landowner has the right to close the forest roads and refuse access, at all other times the driver is responsible for deciding if a forest road is safe to use. When parking your vehicle, park the vehicle so it does not hinder site activities and the use of the road. Turning It is of the utmost importance that you only turn in designated turning areas or areas where it is safe to do so. You should be aware of verges and ditches and of the possibility of road edge failure. If you turn in an unsafe place, you risk your vehicle overturning. It is best practice to turn your vehicle before you load. This will allow you to turn more safely with the risk of your vehicle overturning greatly reduced. Some sites may operate a 1-way system. On these sites, you must always follow the designated 1-way system. Crane It is important to operate the crane as safely as possible. The following points should be taken into consideration when accessing and operating the crane.

You should always use an appropriate mounting and dismounting technique when accessing the crane.

You must not move off unless the loader is properly secured.

Maintain equipment in a safe condition for use

Inspect regularly to ensure crane is safe for use

Keep a record of inspection until the next inspection.

Use suitable guards and protection devices (PPE and emergency stop buttons)

Always follow the guidance in the manufacturer’s instruction manual

Be aware of operator limitations when working at height

Only carry out maintenance when equipment is shut down Forest Loading The following points will help you to load your vehicle in a safe and secure manner.

Where possible, the vehicle should be positioned away from the road edge

Adequate signage should be in place during loading to warn others of the hazards

Loader stabilisers must always be used while loading

Where required, load spreaders should be used under outriggers

Overloading vehicles significantly increases forest road damage

Avoid uneven loading of the vehicle

Stacks must be left safe after loading


Strapping The strapping of the timber on your vehicle is of the utmost importance. If a load is not properly secured, there is the potential for the load to be shed and a serious accident to occur. The following best practice points will help you strap your timber loads safely and securely.

Where headboards are fitted, the height of the headboard should be sufficient to stop forward movement of load

If a headboard is fitted, the first bay should have at least 1 strap

If no headboard is fitted, the first bay should have at least 2 straps

Following bays must have at least 1 strap per bay

Timber should not be loaded across the top of 2 adjoining bays

Timber should not be loaded transversely without suitable gates

Timber should not be loaded to a height greater than that of the bolsters

Pins and bolsters should not spread beyond the width of the trailer when loaded

Loose bolsters must not be used

The load and load straps must be checked before passing from forest to public road

The driver is responsible at all times for checking the load is secure Unloading at the delivery site Delivery sites can vary greatly. The site might be a sawmill, railhead or a port. Due to the variety of sites, site rules and practices can vary too. It is important to have a copy of the risk assessment for each delivery site you visit. The following points will help you to operate safely at delivery sites.

Drivers must understand and obey site safety rules

Drivers should be aware of the site specific risk assessment

Drivers must wear the appropriate PPE as specified in the site rules

The loader should be positioned for safe and efficient unloading

Stabilisers should always be used when unloading with a vehicle mounted loader

The loader, pins and bolsters should be secured and checked before leaving

The vehicle should be swept clean of all debris in the designated area

Drivers should have the correct paperwork for each load

Tips for success on the Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme The following can be used by candidates throughout the one-day training programme as a quick reference guide. Professional drivers, committed to safe and fuel efficient driving, will also wish to refer to these points post-training. Tip - Always drive the truck with as low an engine speed as is practicable. This means using as high a gear as possible and monitoring the tachometer to ensure that the needle is always in the green band. Remember, the higher the gear, the lower the engine revs. Result:

Lower fuel consumption

Better tractive effort

Reduced engine and transmission wear

Reduced environmental impact

Less driver fatigue Tip - Make full use of the engine exhaust brake or engine brake, if fitted. Result:


Reduced wear on brake components

Saving the main brakes for when they are really needed

Less driver fatigue


Tip - Avoid double-declutching on a synchromesh gearbox. Result:


Reduced gearbox wear

Less driver fatigue Tip - Do not use every single gear in the gearbox when shifting up or down. Make use of block changing/forward shift techniques where it is safe to do so, for example: 2-4-6-8. Where a splitter gearbox is fitted, use this facility to your best advantage. Again, do not use it automatically on each gear, but rather in the top range only as a 1/2 gear step. It helps to keep optimum speed up and engine revs down. Result:


Less driver fatigue

Optimum speeds and journey time Tip - Safety checks and prompt defect reporting should be carried out before, during and at the end of every shift. Result:

Safer vehicles on the road

Fewer prohibition notices and driver convictions Tip - Let the engine work for you and “lug” (i.e. work at the bottom end of the green band) on gradients. Remember to use maximum engine torque and thus pulling power. Use the engine’s “sweet spot”. Result:


Less driver fatigue

Better tractive effort

Less environmental impact Tip - Make sure tyre pressures are correct. Incorrect pressure accelerates tyre wear and may jeopardise safety. Result:


Reduced tyre wear

Less risk of accidents Tip - Use cruise control, whenever safe and practicable. Result:


Less engine and driveline wear

Less driver fatigue Tip - When filling fuel tanks, take care not to fill to the brim. Never leave a fuel nozzle unattended. Result:

Less fuel spillage (both in the depot and on the road)

Reduced accident risk


Agreed routes The provision and upkeep of an adequate rural road infrastructure is the responsibility of Local Authorities. The condition and strength of public roads in rural areas is variable. The forest industry has liaised with various Local Authorities to discuss which roads to use for the transport of timber from the forests to the main public roads. This has led to a system of agreed routes being set up in many areas. These routes are made available by Regional Timber Transport Groups who maintain an up to date agreed route map1. The purpose behind this process is to address road and environmental damage, community and safety issues, and to enable Local Authorities to target their resources. The lack of an existing scheme in the area to be harvested should not preclude communication between interested parties to obtain consensus on an agreed or preferred route for the proposed contract. Hauliers should be made aware of the existence of Agreed Routes and should use them wherever they exist. The aim of the agreed routes map is to keep timber traffic off the most vulnerable roads by directing it along stronger routes. The agreed routes map is dependent on:

The forest industry using in-forest roads and public roads that are ‘agreed routes’ wherever possible.

The Local Authority maintaining those agreed routes so that they are fit for purpose and use by timber traffic.

Agreed Routes - Those which can be used for timber haulage without restriction as regulated by the Road Traffic Act 1988. Consultation Routes - Those which are recognised as being key to timber extraction but are not up to Agreed Route standard. Consultation with the Local Authority is required and it may be necessary to agree restrictions on timing, allowable tonnage, etc. before the route can be used. Severely restricted routes - Those routes that should not normally be used for timber transport in their present condition. These routes are close to being Excluded Routes. Consultation with the Council is essential before they may be used so that an agreed management regime may be agreed. Severely Restricted Routes are a means to avoid ‘land locking’ timber. Excluded Routes - Those which should not be used for timber transport in their present condition. These routes are either formally restricted, or are close to being formally restricted, to protect the network from damaging loads. Consultation with the Local Authority is required to explore alternatives.

1 To access Agreed Routes go to www.timbertransportforum.org.uk

http://www.timbertransportforum.org.uk/


Signage It is important that all signage is observed, understood and obeyed. Where timber haulage drivers are loading their vehicles, it is vital that appropriate signage is in place to warn members of the public and other forest users of the presence of the loading vehicle and the loading operation. Where the driver is in an area of forest that is closed off and there are the necessary signs (no unauthorised access, forestry operations etc.) at the area boundary indicating that access is permitted only to authorised personnel, this constitutes appropriate signage. If the driver is loading in an area of the forest to which members of public may have access, the driver should place cones at each of the outriggers and at both ends of the vehicle warning any passer-by of the danger posed by the vehicle and the loading operation. Below are some examples of signage at both delivery and forest sites. Signage at a delivery site s Signage in the forest

The following must be worn at all times

No Children or pets permitted

Mandatory

Information

Please contact any Mobile Plant Truck Driver, all accidents must be reported to

personnel

On hearing alarm, please proceed on foot to weighbridge


Load weighing devices The legal requirement for vehicle and axle weights to be restricted is absolute, in that there is no doubt when an offence has occurred. The method of assessing vehicle and axle weight by the Traffic inspectors and Police is generally to use weighbridges. The law allows a defence against penalty for a weight offence on the grounds that the vehicle was proceeding to the nearest available weighbridge. Owing to the dispersed nature of the forestry industry in the UK, travelling to the 'nearest available weighbridge' is not always practicable and, if during that travelling the vehicle is overweight, damage is taking place to both forest and public roads. All road vehicles used in the transportation of round timber on forest and public roads within the United Kingdom must have available a weighing device which, from the point of loading within the forest, indicates Gross Vehicle Weight or load weight. This can be on the vehicle or on the machine loading the vehicle. A document recording this information must be provided. Operators will provide this record on reasonable request to the Landowner, Police, Department for Transport, Health and Safety Executive and mill personnel. Hauliers will not be engaged unless they have access to this equipment. A number of manufacturers provide load cells for haulage vehicles or devices for fitting to loaders, which can provide an approximate record of the vehicle, gross weight or load, and some also provide an axle weight record. There are also available mobile weighbridges of varying types that provide similar information.

Load recognition Every timber haulage driver must be aware that different types of timber exist. All timber is graded according to the characteristics of the wood: length, circumference etc. Each type of timber is marked with a colour. Colour coding systems vary from forest to forest but the system is essentially the same. The driver should know the difference between timber types at each forest where he loads. The driver should know the type of timber he is contracted to load and the corresponding colour. If the driver is unaware of the timber type to be loaded, he should ask before loading.

PIN For every load of timber carried, the driver must have a weight ticket or a PIN. Weight tickets or PINs should be obtained from the Forestry Commission or other landowner. The Forestry Commission has a mobile despatch system, which is a mobile based system, that sends a PIN for each load of timber to the driver’s mobile telephone. This system allows for out of hours working, improves services to customers, allows for a faster turn-around of despatch approval and helps to improve the service to customers. The system also has the potential to save both the haulage company and the Forestry Commission money by reducing operational costs.

The Forestry Commission is monitoring breeches of policy regarding uplift procedures and overloading. There will be sanctions for:

Requesting a PIN after the load has been delivered

Failure to request a PIN

Failure to uplift load within the PIN Window (lifting load before PIN is valid or after it expires)

Overloading

The sanctions

1 breech = 1 day ban on uplift on the contract

Contract specific

Cumulative records will be maintained and used to monitor contract performance

Persistent and repeated breaches may result in contract termination


Training Programme and Assessment Material Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme timetable Driver Training for Timber Haulage Programme Timetable 1 (Demonstration drive with fuel monitoring equipment)

Time Summary Content Location

0800 (10min)

Introduction

Introduction to the aims and objectives of the programme and its contents. Licence check for class of vehicle entitlement, penalty points and any other restrictions.

Classroom

0810 (1hr 20min)

Safety, theory and vehicle checks

Safety presentation covering all aspects (power point). Candidate informed of his responsibilities throughout training day and his obligations to obey rules and regulations covering his class of vehicle on the road.

‘Check it Out’ video on correct vehicle safety check procedure

Forest safety video

Eyesight check

Vehicle safety checks completed by candidate and recorded on appropriate documents. Instructor to observe and record pass/fail directly onto document 7.

Classroom and by vehicle

0930 (3hr)

First run

Candidate demonstrates driving/operation abilities. The selected route will include both in-forest driving and on road driving. Instructor will use document 7 to record detailed performance along the route. At end of run, time taken, distance travelled, gear change, fuel use and mpg figures are inserted into document 7. Include a short discussion at the end of the drive on faults highlighted during drive. The driver and instructor drive from the training base to the forest coupe. The driver is assessed from loading the vehicle, driving to the delivery site and then unloading the vehicle. The instructor then demonstrates best practice on the return leg from delivery site to mill.

In-cab

1230 (45min)

Lunch and fuel efficiency presentation

Lunch During lunch, a short presentation on fuel efficient driving is given

In-cab

1315 (3hr)

Second run Candidate given opportunity to demonstrate improved driving/operation technique. The instructor will provide pointers to help candidate. Instructor will use document 7 to record detailed performance along the route. At end of run, new time taken, distance travelled, gear change, fuel use and mpg figures are inserted into document 7. The driver is assessed from loading the vehicle, driving to the delivery site and then unloading the vehicle. The run is now complete and the driver and instructor drive to training base.

In-cab

1615 (25min)

Underpinning knowledge exercises

Two theory exercises conducted, covering safe and fuel efficient driving issues, including loading, turning, unloading, strapping etc

Classroom

1640 (35min) 1715

Assessment summary and feedback report

Summary of day, highlighting differences between the two runs. Discuss theory tests, knowledge gained, and improvements in driving/operation performance. Completed report returned to candidate. The final grade and instructor’s and candidate’s comments discussed. Target fuel consumption performance figure agreed. Candidate to provide feedback. Certificate issued to candidate. Instructor provides feed back form on candidate for employer

Classroom


Driver Training for Timber Haulage Programme Timetable 2 (Demonstration drive without fuel monitoring equipment)

Time Summary Content Location

0800 (10min)

Introduction

Introduction to the aims and objectives of the programme and its contents. Licence check for class of vehicle entitlement, penalty points and any other restrictions.

Classroom

0810 (1hr 20min)

Safety, theory and vehicle checks

Safety presentation covering all aspects (power point) Candidate informed of his responsibilities throughout training day and his obligations to obey rules and regulations covering his class of vehicle on the road.

‘Check it Out’ video on correct vehicle safety check procedure

Forest safety video

Eyesight check

Vehicle safety checks completed by candidate and recorded on appropriate documents. Instructor to observe and record pass/fail directly onto document 7.

Classroom and by vehicle

0930 (3hr)

First run

Candidate demonstrates driving/operation abilities. The selected route will include both in-forest driving and on road driving. Instructor will use document 7 to record detailed performance along the route. At end of run, time taken, distance travelled, gear change, fuel use and mpg figures are inserted into document 7. Include a short discussion at the end of the drive on faults highlighted during drive. The driver is assessed from the training base to the forest, loading the vehicle, driving to the delivery site and unloading the vehicle and then returning to the training base.

In-cab

1230 (45min)

Lunch and fuel efficiency presentation

Lunch During lunch, a short presentation on fuel efficient driving is given

In-cab

1315 (30min)

Instructor demo drive

Instructor conducts short demonstration drive, indicating to the trainee best practice, how to get the most out of the vehicle and the way to achieve maximum fuel efficiency. Demo drive could ideally be on both forest roads and public roads but will start and finish at the training base.

In-cab

1345 (3hr)

Second run Candidate given opportunity to demonstrate improved driving/operation technique. The instructor will provide pointers to help candidate. Instructor will use document 7 to record detailed performance along the route. At end of run, new time taken, distance travelled, gear change, fuel use and mpg figures inserted into document 7. The driver is assessed from the training base to the forest, loading the vehicle, driving to the delivery site and unloading the vehicle and then returning to the training base.

In-cab

1645 (25min)

Underpinning knowledge exercises

Two theory exercises conducted, covering safe and fuel efficient driving issues, including loading, turning, unloading, strapping etc

Classroom

1710 (35min) 1745

Assessment summary and feedback report

Summary of day, highlighting differences between the two runs. Discuss theory tests, knowledge gained, and improvements in driving/operation performance. Completed report returned to candidate. The final grade and instructor’s and candidate’s comments discussed. Target fuel consumption performance figure agreed. Candidate to provide feedback. Certificate issued to candidate. Instructor provides feed back form on candidate for employer

Classroom


NOTES The demonstration drive is deemed to be a key part of the teaching/learning experience. Two timetables have been developed, therefore, one to incorporate a demonstration drive for drivers whose vehicle has on board fuel monitoring equipment and the second to incorporate a demonstration drive for drivers whose vehicle does not have on board fuel monitoring equipment. Academic research concludes that trainees generally remember 70% more of what they say and do, and 30% more of what they see and hear, than that which is remembered from purely reading. The demonstration drive will show practically to the trainee aspects of driving and vehicle utilisation that may be new to the driver, and that fuel savings can be made with little or no increase in trip length. It will also allow the trainee to see best practice in action in addition to discussing it. For parts of the country where a suitable round trip route from forest to mill to forest can be completed in approximately 2 hours, there would be the opportunity to reduce the length of the day. Clearly, the closer the training base is to the forest, the shorter the day will be.


Assessment material Document 1: Assessment Guide Document 2: Vehicle Safety Check Sheet Document 3: Trailer Safety Check Sheet Document 4: Crane Safety Check Sheet Document 5: Theory Test Paper A – Safe Driving Document 6: Theory Test Paper B – Fuel Efficient Driving Document 7: General Assessment Report Document 8: Employer Feedback Report Document 9: Evaluation Form


1. Assessment Guide This section is to be used by all Driver Training for Timber Haulage instructors when completing the General Assessment Report (Document 7). It will enable appropriate grades to be allocated. The grading system is based on a candidate’s performance against the individual elements of safe and fuel efficient driving and operation during each run. A candidate’s performance in each element is graded as either good, fair or unsatisfactory. If a candidate’s performance on a particular element is deemed to be Good (G), then zero faults are allocated. If performance on an element is deemed to be Fair (F) then one fault is allocated. If performance on an individual element is Unsatisfactory (U), then three faults are allocated. The number of faults does not correspond to the actual number of errors or omissions observed during he drives. Performance on each of the Driver Training for Timber Haulage elements will be assessed on both runs. The candidate should show improvement between the first and second runs. G = Good (0 faults) F = Fair (1 fault) U = Unsatisfactory (3 faults)


2. Vehicle Safety Check Sheet Candidate’s Name: Instructor’s Name: Date: / / Tick if the item is in working order, add N/A if not applicable, or indicate a defect in the appropriate box.

Vehicle Registration:

1. On approach, look to see how the vehicle is sitting and check for obvious fluid leaks

2. Engine oil/water/fuel/hydraulics - levels/leaks (inc. attachments)

3. Cab glass and mirrors - condition and security

4. Cab interior lights/warning devices (audible reversing alarm etc)

5. Driving controls/seat/seat belt - condition and security

6. Windscreen wipers and washers - operation and condition

7. Tachograph - time displayed/calibration/inspection due date

8. Tachograph/speedometer/speed limiter (check on road)

9. VED disc/O licence disc/valid VTG 6 - check displayed

10. In-cab height indicator - check displayed

11. Exhaust - condition and security (smoke check on road when warm)

12. Number plates and markers - security and condition

13. Brakes - warning devices/pressure/leaks - operation (check in yard)

14. Vehicle body/wings/sideguards/underrun bars - security and condition

15. Wheels and wheel nuts - security and condition

16. Tyres - inflation/damage/tread depth - condition

17. Load restraints and security of load (if applicable)

18. Lights - head/side/marker/tail/stop/indicators/reverse - operation and condition

19. Fifth wheel-locking device/steps/cat walk - security and condition

20. Air electrical/ABS/suzies - condition and security

21. ADR kit and fire extinguishers - condition, security and test dates

Candidate’s signature (upon completion of safety check): Instructor’s signature (upon completion of safety check): You must not use a vehicle unless you are completely satisfied that it is safe and fit to operate, on and off, public roads. REMEMBER:

IF A SEAT BELT IS FITTED, IT MUST BE WORN. THIS IS THE LAW AND THE FORESTRY COMMISSION APPLY THE SAME LAW ON FOREST ROADS.

THE TACHOGRAPH MUST SHOW 10-15 MINUTES OF VEHICLE CHECKS AT THE START OF EACH DAY. THE TACHOGRAPH MUST BE SET TO “CROSSED HAMMERS” WHILE THE CHECKS ARE CARRIED OUT.


3. Trailer Safety Check Sheet Candidate’s Name:

Instructor’s Name:

Date: / /

Tick if the item is in working order, add N/A if not applicable or indicate a defect in the appropriate box. You must not use any trailer unless you are completely satisfied that it is safe and fit to operate on, and off, public roads.

Trailer Number:

1. On approach, look to see how the trailer is sitting and check the trailer parking brake

2. Fluids/Air - levels/leaks (including attachments)

3. Trailer connections (security and condition)

4. Lights - stop/tail/marker/indicators/reverse (operation and condition)

5. Landing legs and handle (security and condition)

6. Tyres - inflation/damage/tread depth (condition)

7. Wheels and wheel nuts (security and condition)

8. Brakes - pressure/leaks/operation (check in yard)

9. ABS warning light - operation (be aware of type fitted)

10. Body/sideguards/underrun bars (security and condition)

11. Number plates/marker plates (security and condition)

12. Load security and lashing points (security and condition, if applicable)

13. MOT plate (valid and displayed)

14. Pins and Bolsters (secure)

15. Coupling (secure)

16. Rear amber warning lights (security and operation)

17. Trailer height indicator (displayed)

Candidate’s signature (upon completion of safety check): Instructor’s signature (upon completion of safety check): REMEMBER: ENSURE THE PARKING BRAKE IS APPLIED BEFORE COUPLING AND UNCOUPLING


4. Crane Safety Check Sheet

Candidate’s Name:

Instructor’s Name:

Date: / /

Tick if the item is in working order, add N/A if not applicable or indicate a defect in the appropriate box. You must not use any crane unless you are completely satisfied that it is safe and fit to operate.

Crane:

1. On approach, look to see how the crane is sitting and check for obvious leaks

2. Ensure stabilising legs are locked and the safety clips are in place

3. Check for damage, bulges and leaks with the hydraulics (hoses, pipes and unions)

4. Check pins are secure on the hydraulic ram, both at the top and the bottom

5. Ensure the seat and all crane access steps are in place and secure

6. Check the gantry for any cracks in welding or splits and ensure it is secured

7. Check all location bolts for splits, on the leg beams and the chassis

8. Check the boom and pins are secured and for any cracks

9. Ensure all lights are working and secure

Candidate’s signature (upon completion of safety check): Instructor’s signature (upon completion of safety check):


THEORY PAPER A – SAFE OPERATION

Candidates should attempt all questions, answers to be marked with a tick. Each question is worth one point, but some questions may require candidates to give more than one correct answer so candidates should read the instructions carefully. Candidates must score at least 12 points to pass this test and have 20 minutes to complete the test.

Candidate’s Name

Date

Score:

1) You are in the forest and need to turn your vehicle. You should:

Turn as soon as possible

Turn anywhere there is space

Turn in a designated turning area or where it is safe to do so

Reverse back to the forest entrance

2) You are parking your vehicle to load it with timber: You should:

Park as close to the timber stack as possible

Park in a safe position away from the road edge

Park in a wide, open space

Park near the timber stack and put your hazard warning lights on

3) Before loading your vehicle, you should:

Put down the vehicle outriggers and warning cones if necessary

Switch on your lights

Clear debris from your vehicle

Prepare your vehicle for a swift departure

4) The place you parked your vehicle does not allow you to safely strap you timber. You should:

Try strapping the timber anyway

Drive off without strapping the timber

Tell the landowner to make the coupe bigger

Move forward to a place of safety and strap there

5) Your vehicle has a headboard. You require:

No straps

No straps on the first bay and 1 strap on each of the following bays

A minimum of 1 strap on each bay

1 strap on the first bay and none on the following bays

6) After loading the timber you should leave the remaining timber stack:

As safe as possible

However it looks best

The way you found it

In a triangular formation

7) Before passing from the forest to the public roads you should:

Sound your horn and flash your lights

Idle the engine to make sure it has warmed up

Make sure you know where you are going and ask for directions if necessary

Check that the load and straps are secure

8) When loading your timber you should:

Load as quickly as possible

Load smoothly and evenly

Keep over revving the PTO to help the loading process

Load 1 piece of timber at a time


9) Before entering the forest or delivery site you should:

Know, understand and have a copy of the risk assessment for the site

Sound your horn

Loosen straps in advance to speed up unloading process

Speed up so traffic doesn’t queue behind you when you turn into the site

10) When mounting and dismounting the crane you should:

Climb safely with your back facing outwards and your face facing inwards towards the steps

Swing quickly from the cab onto the crane

Jump down to save time

Climb up and down the way you think is best

11) Before leaving the delivery site you should:

Have something to eat or drink

Sweep the debris from your vehicle in the designated area

Wash your hands

Walk round your vehicle a couple of times

12) Agreed Routes: Which of the following pairs is completely correct?

Agreed Consultation

Excluded Severely restricted

Consultation Severely Restricted

Excluded Agreed

13) You are driving along the road and a vehicle cuts in front of you. What should you do?

Accelerate to get closer

Give a blast on the horn

Drop back to leave the correct separation distance

Flash your headlights several times

14) A long, heavily laden lorry is taking a long time to overtake you. What should you do?

Speed up

Slow down

Hold your speed

Change direction

15) You have a mobile phone fitted in your vehicle. It should only be used when you are?

Stopped in a safe place

Travelling slowly

On a motorway

In light traffic

16) In fast traffic a four second gap may be enough only when conditions are?

Dry

Wet

Damp

Foggy

17) In the UK the headroom under bridges unless otherwise shown, is at least?

4.8 meters

5 meters

6 meters

7 meters

18) You arrive at an accident. A motorcyclist is unconscious. Your first priority is the casualty’s?

Breathing.

Bleeding

Broken bones.

Bruising.

19) You have just overtaken a cyclist, you must check your?

Speedometer

Near side mirror

Offside mirror

Road ahead

20) Coasting downhill could seriously affect the correct working of the?

Air brakes

Cooling system

Tachograph

Electrical systems

21) You are driving a modern vehicle. You notice the steering feels heavy. What is the most likely cause?

Faulty power steering

A burst rear tyre

An icy road

A wet road


22) You are uncoupling a trailer. Before disconnecting any of the airlines, you must?

Drain the air tanks

Apply the trailer parking brake

Lower the landing gear

Disconnect the electrical line


THEORY PAPER B – FUEL EFFICIENT DRIVING Candidates should attempt all questions, answers to be marked with a tick. Each question is worth one point, but some questions may require candidates to give more than one correct answer so candidates should read the instructions carefully. Candidates must score at least six points to pass this test and have 10 minutes to complete the test.

Candidate’s Name

Date

Score:

1) To prevent fuel spillage it is important to:

Use a filtered system

Stop refuelling when half full

Use a drip tray

Only fill to base of the neck of the tank

2) You have been waiting in a queue of traffic for several minutes. The road in front is blocked what should you do:

Rev the engine to keep it going

Switch off the engine

Keep your engine on tick over

Only switch your engine off if told to do so by a policeman

3) Which one of the following is a result of progressive braking when driving?

Reduced air brake pressure

Increased brake fade


Reduces the need to look well ahead

4) Whilst carrying out the daily checks on your vehicle you notice the roof air deflector is too low for the trailer, you should:

Make a note of it on your tachograph

Ignore it as it will not stop you from making your delivery

Reset lower than the height of the trailer before starting to drive

Reset to the height of the trailer

5) Planning well ahead will assist a driver with fuel efficiency because:

A longer lunch break can be taken

It will allow time to anticipate other driver’s actions

It will give the driver time to get in front of other lorries

You can stop buses from pulling out in front of you

6) Block or skip gear changing is encouraged because:

It will only save you fuel

It will save fuel and make you look good to other drivers

It will make you a safe and efficient driver

It will only save you fuel down the gears

7) Which of the following can influence good fuel consumption:

The area daily rest is taken

The amount of time the driver has held his licence

The vehicle condition

Only stopping as a last resort

8) Outside air temperature always has an effect on fuel consumption, which of the following is true:

Hot air means decreased friction and the engine has a tougher time

Cold air means increased friction and the engine has a tougher time


9) Resistance to acceleration can be improved by:

Being gentle with the accelerator pedal, as every time speed is increased extra fuel is used

Accelerating as hard as possible

Once speed is gained only slow down as a last resort

It makes no difference

10) You have lost the fuel cap to your diesel tank. You should:

Push a rag into the filler cap

Only fill the tank half full to avoid spillage

Get a replacement before driving

Drive slowly back to the depot


7. General Assessment Report

General Details

Candidate Name:

Date:

Training Venue:

Weather Conditions:

Vehicle Type: Vehicle Weight: Vehicle Registration:

Licence valid: Yes/No Eye sight satisfactory: Yes/No

Licence number:

Company:

Run Details First Run Second Run Instructor’s Run

Start Time

End Time

Duration

Miles

Number of gear changes

Fuel used

MPG

Safety Checks and Theory Exercises

Vehicle Safety Check

Trailer Safety Check (if applicable)

Crane Safety Check

Theory Paper A Theory Paper B

Pass/Fail: Pass/Fail: Pass/Fail: Pass/Fail: Pass/Fail:


Off-Tarmac Assessment

First Run Second Run

Assessment (G, F, U)

Faults (0, 1, 3)


Faults (0, 1, 3)

1 Acceleration

2 Braking (including engine/exhaust brake)

3 Clutch Control

4 Driving position/Seat belt

5 Road and weather conditions

6 Steering

7 Gear selection and use

8 Hazard perception and prioritisation

9 Speed

10 Use of mirrors

11 Use of signals

12 Vehicle sympathy

13 Driver’s attitude/technique

Total: Total:

General comments and notes:


On-Road Assessment



Faults (0, 1, 3)


Faults (0, 1, 3)

1 Acceleration and Cruise Control

2 Braking (including engine/exhaust brake)

3 Clutch Control

4 Driving position/Seat belt

5 Road and weather conditions

6 Steering

7 Gear selection and use

8 Hazard perception and prioritisation

9 Speed

10 Lane discipline and positioning

11 Making progress and planning

12 Use of mirrors and blind spots

13 Use of signals

14 Overtaking

15 Vehicle sympathy

16 Driver’s attitude/technique

17 Reaction to road markings and signs

Total: Total:



Forest Loading Assessment



Faults (0,1,3)


Faults (0,1,3)

1 Does driver have relevant risk assessment for forest

2 Follow designated one way system (if appropriate)

3 Turn in designated area (if possible turn before loading)

4 Vehicle parked in a safe position for loading (away from road edge)

5 PPE: hard hat, high visibility jacket, safety boots and non snag clothing

6 Outrigger legs down and safe (suitable bearer)

7 Appropriate signage (cones if necessary)

8 Use of appropriate mounting/ dismounting technique on crane

9 Optimum setting used on the PTO

10 Checking for over head cables

11 Observation of any other obstacles or obstructions (vehicles, trees etc)

12 If any maintenance was carried out was equipment shut down first?

13 Hydraulics operated in smooth manner

14 Crane operated within limits of crane’s safe reach

15 Timber loaded evenly

16 Timber not loaded to a height greater than that of the bolsters

17 The centre log crowns the load

18 Pins and bolsters do not spread beyond the width of the trailer when loaded

19 Timber not loaded and strapped across the top of 2 adjoining bays

20 Load strapped and secured

21 Removal of protruding branches

22 Stack(s) left safe after loading

23

If not in a suitable place to strap, did candidate move forward to a place of safety and strap there?

24 Was crane suitably secured before moving off?

25 Load and load straps check before passing from forest to public roads

Total: Total:



Unloading at Delivery Site Assessment



Faults (0, 1, 3)


Faults (0, 1, 3)

1

Does driver have relevant risk

assessment for delivery site?

2

Drivers should have the correct

paperwork for each load

3

Driver followed designated route at

delivery site

4

Vehicle parked in a safe position

for unloading

5

PPE: hard hat, high visibility jacket,

safety boots and non snag clothing

6

Outrigger legs down and safe

(suitable bearer)

7

Appropriate signage (cones if

necessary)

8

Use of appropriate mounting/

dismounting technique on crane

9 Optimum setting used on the PTO

10 Checking for any over head cables

11

If any maintenance was carried out

was equipment shut down first?

12

Loader, pins and bolsters secured and

checked before leaving

13

The vehicle should be swept clean of

all debris in the designated area

14 Stack(s) left safe after loading

15

Was crane suitably secured before

moving off

Total: Total:



Instructor’s Additional Comments:

Candidate’s Comments:

Candidate’s planned improvement in future fuel consumption: Candidate’s signature: Date: / / Instructor’s signature: Instructor’s name (print): Instructor’s DSA registration number:


8. Employer Feedback Report

General Details

Candidate Name:

Date:

Training Venue:

Weather Conditions:

Vehicle Type: Vehicle Weight: Vehicle Registration:

Licence valid: Yes/No Eye sight satisfactory: Yes/No

Licence number:

Company:

Run Details First Run Second Run Instructor’s Run

Start Time

End Time

Duration

Miles

Number of gear changes

Fuel used

MPG

Safety Checks and Theory Exercises

Vehicle Safety Check

Trailer Safety Check (if applicable)

Crane Safety Check

Theory Paper A Theory Paper B

Pass/Fail: Pass/Fail: Pass/Fail: Pass/Fail: Pass/Fail:

Operational Assessments

First Run Faults Second Run Faults

1 Off-Tarmac

2 On- Road

3 Forest Loading

4 Unloading at delivery site

Grand Total:


Instructor’s General Feedback:

Points To Note:

Further Development/Training Required:

Candidate’s Comments:

Candidate’s planned improvement in future fuel consumption: Candidate’s signature: Date: / / Instructor’s signature: Instructor’s name (print): Instructor’s DSA registration number:


9. Evaluation Form

Candidate’s Name (optional): ______________________________________________________________

Instructor’s Name:_______________________________________________________________________

Venue: _______________________________________ Date: / / Please rate the following aspects of the Driver Training for Timber Haulage programme, by ticking the appropriate number on a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 = Unsatisfactory and 5 = Excellent.

1 2 3 4 5

The explanation of and subsequent delivery of the course

Help in developing new ideas, skills and techniques to benefit both your company and you

Clarity, conciseness and relevance of the course content

Instructor’s responsiveness to your needs

The usefulness of the training materials used

Location and standard of the venue and its facilities

The date and time of the programme

The time taken to complete the programme

If you have given a low score for any of the above, it would be helpful if you could explain how you think we could improve the programme

Were the Health and Safety procedures explained? Yes No In general, how satisfied are you with the services you have received today from the training provider? Extremely Satisfied Very Satisfied Satisfied Dissatisfied Very Dissatisfied What do you feel has been the most valuable part of today’s course?

Please use the following space to make any additional comments about this programme

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