Cleanzine: your weekly cleaning and hygiene industry newsletter 25th April 2024 Issue no. 1111

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How much could 10 minutes cost you?

Van users have been asked how much they would spend, to save 10 minutes. "We all know that time is money," says Steve Clarke, group marketing manager for The Fuel Card Group, "but sometimes saving a few minutes is not worth the long term cost. Just ask anyone who has been caught employing an unlicensed driver..."

The courts have imposed fines in the high hundreds of pounds during recent weeks, but this leniency has typically been in reaction to a 'Guilty' plea and a lack of aggravating factors. An employer would have no grounds for optimism if an unlicensed driver were held responsible for an accident.

"These days, there is no excuse for not checking all employees' licences," says Steve. "DVLA checking is so fast and simple that it should be standard practice not just at time of hiring, but at regular intervals throughout employment."

Steve acknowledges that anyone running vans would carry out a visual check of documentation as part of the hiring process, but highlights an inherent challenge in the system. "After that initial check, the employer will only become aware of any changes to the licence if the driver chooses to notify them. Whenever a driver is found to be driving illegally, it always comes as a surprise to the employer."

Steve admits that he has a vested interest in all this: MileageCount, the fleet management software from The Fuel Card Group, is offered with full DVLA checking of driving licences, MOT, tax and insurance. "It makes no difference if the driver is self-employed and using his own vehicle," he reminded employers, "you could be held at least partly liable."

The Fuel Card Group, part of the international DCC, deals with the refuelling concerns of commercial road users every day. Its powerful MileageCount software is a complete fleet management system that includes finance, tax, licensing, training, duty of care and more.

T: 0844 870 9741
E: [email protected]
W: www.mileagecount.co.uk

24th April 2014