Susie Jones
Nouvelles et mises à jour • 2 min lire

Les conducteurs de poids lourds contestent l'expression "pénurie de conducteurs".

Créée: 15/08/2024

Mise à jour : 16/08/2024

Le 11 avril 2024, le [DfT] (https://www.fleetpoint.org/fleet-management-2/driver-shortage/consultation-opened-of-how-to-address-the-driver-shortage-for-hgv-and-coach/) a ouvert une consultation sur les mesures à prendre pour remédier à la pénurie de conducteurs. Il s'agit de propositions visant à permettre à une personne de passer ses examens théoriques et de manœuvre hors route avant d'obtenir un permis de conduire provisoire pour les poids lourds.

Depuis Covid-19 et le Brexit, le secteur a connu une baisse du nombre de chauffeurs de poids lourds. La pandémie a retardé les tests [30 000] (https://oceansidelogistics.com/shortage-of-lorry-drivers/) pour les nouveaux conducteurs, et le Brexit a durement touché les entreprises de flotte - de nombreux chauffeurs de camions européens quittant le Royaume-Uni.

Un rapport 2023 du SNAP suggère que le secteur pourrait atteindre un "point de basculement" (https://snapacc.com/tipping-point/) dans les 10 à 15 prochaines années. Le secteur évoluant rapidement, les commandes en ligne sont l'une des demandes qui se développent le plus rapidement. Combinés au vieillissement de la main-d'œuvre, les besoins du secteur dépasseront la pénurie de chauffeurs qualifiés.

Qu'en pensent les chauffeurs routiers ?

Sur [les médias sociaux] (https://www.facebook.com/snapaccount?locale=en_GB), SNAP a demandé aux conducteurs d'exprimer leur opinion sur la proposition du DfT. De nombreux conducteurs n'ont pas commenté le projet, mais 72,5 % d'entre eux ont contesté l'expression "pénurie de conducteurs", la qualifiant d'alarmiste.

Au lieu de cela, ils ont déclaré que les éléments suivants incitaient les conducteurs expérimentés à quitter le secteur et, parallèlement, dissuadaient les nouveaux candidats :

Salaires

Sur les 72,5 %, 28 % ont indiqué que la faiblesse des salaires était un facteur dissuasif. Les conducteurs sur les pages de médias sociaux de SNAP ont suggéré qu'ils pourraient gagner plus dans d'autres professions :

*J'ai un permis de conduire pour les poids lourds, mais je n'ai aucune envie de l'utiliser. Je gagne actuellement plus d'argent à l'heure en tant que moniteur d'auto-école. Il ne s'agit pas du tout d'une pénurie de conducteurs".

*"Mieux rémunérer les chauffeurs et leur offrir de meilleures conditions de travail".

Il y a eu des idées fausses concernant les salaires des chauffeurs de poids lourds au Royaume-Uni - l'opinion étant que les chauffeurs de poids lourds gagnent plus que le travailleur moyen. Selon [National Careers] (https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/large-goods-vehicle-driver), le salaire moyen d'un chauffeur de poids lourds au Royaume-Uni se situe entre 22 000 et 40 000 livres sterling, les chauffeurs expérimentés gagnant le plus.

Installations

Les installations ont également fait l'objet d'un examen minutieux de la part de nombreuses personnes - 20 % d'entre elles ont accusé les normes médiocres d'avoir fait fuir les chauffeurs qualifiés. La qualité des installations dans les relais routiers du Royaume-Uni a fait l'objet d'un examen minutieux de la part des professionnels du secteur, qui sont nombreux à déclarer qu'elles ne valent pas l'argent.

Le DfT a pris des mesures significatives avec son programme de subvention de 6 millions de livres sterling pour le stationnement des poids lourds et le bien-être des conducteurs (https://www.smmt.co.uk/2024/05/first-class-facilities-truckstops-to-be-upgraded-with-16-5m-funding/#:~:text=Under%20the%20plans%2C%2038%20truckstops,significantly%20upgrade%20facilities%20for%20drivers.). - soutenu par un montant supplémentaire de 10,5 millions de livres de la part de l'industrie. Ce programme permettra d'investir dans 38 relais routiers en Angleterre afin d'améliorer les installations destinées aux conducteurs, notamment de nouvelles douches et de nouveaux restaurants, ainsi que d'améliorer la sécurité.

Outre l'amélioration des installations, le projet devrait permettre de créer environ 430 nouvelles places de stationnement pour les poids lourds, ce qui réduira le nombre de parkings de délestage et permettra aux sites d'être complets dès le début de la soirée.

Manque de travail

De même, 20 % des conducteurs ont expliqué qu'ils avaient un permis mais qu'ils ne trouvaient pas de travail. Selon l'[Office for National Statistics (ONS)] (https://backlinelogistics.co.uk/the-9-best-and-worst-locations-to-be-an-hgv-driver/), il y a plus de 183 000 emplois de chauffeurs de poids lourds au Royaume-Uni. Malgré cela, les possibilités d'emploi varient d'une région à l'autre, ce qui se traduit par une demande inégale sur le territoire britannique. De nombreux conducteurs ont fait part de leur expérience en matière de recherche d'emploi :

*Je suis titulaire d'un diplôme de classe 1 depuis sept mois et je n'arrive pas à trouver un emploi. J'aimerais bien savoir où se trouve la pénurie".

"Quelle pénurie ? Il n'y a pas beaucoup de travail à prendre. "

Certificat de compétence professionnelle du conducteur

10 % des personnes qui n'étaient ni d'accord ni en désaccord avec l'expression "pénurie de conducteurs" ont déclaré que le [certificat de compétence professionnelle (CCP)] (https://www.gov.uk/driver-cpc-training/getting-your-driver-cpc-card) avait joué un rôle essentiel dans la réduction du nombre de conducteurs de poids lourds.

Introduit en 2009, le CAP vise à améliorer la sécurité routière, le professionnalisme et la sensibilisation à l'environnement. Il permet également de s'assurer que les conducteurs sont au fait de toutes les exigences en matière de santé, de sécurité et de législation. Les résultats d'une consultation concernant une révision de la politique du CAP ont révélé que [47 %] (https://www.hgvtraining.co.uk/hgv-training/what-is-cpc/#:~:text=It%20was%20brought%20in%20to,1000%20for%20driving%20without%20it) des conducteurs de poids lourds ont déclaré qu'il était inefficace ou très inefficace. Sur les médias sociaux du SNAP, un conducteur a fait le commentaire suivant :

*Je ne paie pas pour faire 35 heures, pour apprendre à faire ce que j'ai passé des années à faire tous les jours. Je ne paierai pas pour faire 35 heures, pour apprendre à faire ce que j'ai déjà passé des années à faire tous les jours".

Le gouvernement a présenté une série de modifications du CAP afin d'accroître la flexibilité lors du renouvellement et de l'obtention de la qualification. Parmi les changements apportés à la durée des cours, le gouvernement développera davantage le contenu des cours de base en collaboration avec l'Agence des normes de conduite et des véhicules (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency).

Des facteurs externes, tels que le Brexit et le COVID-19, combinés à des problèmes liés à l'industrie, ont eu un impact significatif sur les taux d'emploi dans le secteur du transport routier. Dans un environnement en constante évolution, le secteur doit continuer à apporter les changements nécessaires pour attirer et retenir davantage de conducteurs.

Partager avec

D'autres lisent également...

Header Image

vendredi 08 novembre 2024 • Nouvelles et mises à jour

DART CHARGE ACCOUNT - SIMPLIFIEZ VOS PAIEMENTS

Miranda Blake

Understanding the intricacies of the Dart Charge system is essential to ensure a seamless and cost-effective experience when using the Dartford Crossing. Familiarising yourself with the payment options, account management, and potential pitfalls can save you from unnecessary fines and headaches. The Dartford Crossing, a vital aspect for commercial traffic, is managed by a sophisticated electronic payment system known as the Dart Charge. This innovative system was introduced to enhance the efficiency of toll collection, eliminating the need for traditional toll booths and enabling drivers to pre-pay or pay online by the end of the day.Wondering what exactly the Dart Charge is? It refers to the payment method used for the Dartford Crossing. The system was implemented to improve traffic flow and provide a more convenient payment experience for users.Drivers have three primary options when it comes to paying the Dart Charge:1. Customers can set up a pre-pay account, which offers automated billing and a discounted crossing rate. Such a hassle-free approach ensures that payments are made seamlessly, with the account being automatically debited for each crossing. For those who don't have a pre-pay account, the option to pay online, by phone, or at Payzone retail outlets is available. Payments can be made in advance or by midnight the following day. The Dartford Crossing is free to use between the hours of 10:00 pm and 6:00 am, providing a cost-effective option for nighttime journeys.Curious as to what the Dart Charge rates are? These vary depending on the vehicle class and whether the customer has a pre-pay account or is making a one-off payment. Here’s a breakdown of the current charges:You can also .Maintaining your Dart Charge account is crucial for avoiding fines and streamlining your crossings. Let’s explore the key aspects of account management.Establishing a Dart Charge account is a straightforward process. Customers can visit the , click "Start now," and select the "Sign in or set up a Dart Charge account" option. Alternatively, they can open a pre-pay account by downloading and submitting an application form.Accessing your Dart Charge account requires the email address registered on the account. If you've forgotten your password, the link on the sign-in page will guide you through the process of creating a new one.Changing your name, address, or the vehicle registration numbers associated with your account can be done by logging into your Dart Charge account, navigating to the "Account management" and "Profile" or "Vehicle management" sections, and making the necessary updates.Customers can review their crossing history and account statements by logging into their Dart Charge account. This feature allows you to track your usage and ensure that all payments have been properly recorded.If your Dart Charge account becomes inactive due to a lack of vehicle registration, valid payment method, or recent crossings, you can reactivate it by addressing the underlying issue. Similarly, a suspended account can be unsuspended by topping up the balance or making payments for any outstanding crossings.When it’s time to close your Dart Charge account, you can do so by logging in, navigating to the "Account management" section, and selecting the "Close account" option. Any remaining balance will be refunded using the same payment method.SNAP Account offers a convenient solution, providing several benefits for drivers and .The system automatically handles the payment for each crossing, eliminating the need to remember to pay or deal with Dart Charge directly.You’ll never receive a charge for late payment. This helps avoid potential fines or penalties associated with missed or late payments, providing peace of mind.We simplify your financial management by including the Dartford Crossing transactions on the same invoice as your other SNAP Account activities. Such consolidation makes it easier to track and manage your expenses.By automating the payment process, we save drivers valuable time. There’s no need to stop and make individual payments or remember to pay by midnight the following day, as is required when paying directly through the government's Dart Charge system.Our Dartford Crossing service is part of a broader ecosystem of road transport services. This integration allows users to manage multiple aspects of their journey, including parking, washing, and fueling, through a single platform.For businesses managing multiple vehicles, we provide an efficient way to control and monitor the Dartford Crossing expenses. The consolidated billing and automated payment system helps streamline accounting processes and reduce the administrative burden associated with managing individual crossings. By leveraging SNAP Account for the Dartford Crossing payments, drivers and fleet operators can enjoy a more efficient, reliable, and stress-free experience when using this crucial transport link.Want to learn more about how to save money on the road? Check out our article on along with our .

Header Image

vendredi 01 novembre 2024 • Nouvelles et mises à jour

ÉTUDE DE CAS : TWV PARK

Miranda Blake

Situated just 60 minutes from Calais is TWV Park, a haven for truckers looking for a restful night’s sleep. With an impressive 4.7-star rating on Google, TWV has been described by its customers as an oasis and a great place to park. The site offers a range of services including, showers, free Wi-Fi, and 24/7 video surveillance. Emilie, from TWV Park, tells us a bit more. "We offer our customers all the comforts for drivers to rest peacefully. Bicycles are available to rent, and we host entertainment such as football match broadcasts, competitions, and music concerts. Nearby is a shopping centre, and a water sports centre for extra activities outside of TWV." Providing drivers with a wide range of facilities and entertainment is not the only thing the truck park does incredibly well. The safety and security of TWV is something the team has made great progress on throughout the years. "TWV is a secure car park with ESPORG Gold certification. The site has 24/7 security guards, fences, and 80 on-site cameras. All of which are monitored." Emilie explains. Back in June 2023, the site announced its Secure Truck Park project – a project supported by the European Co-Funding programme. This has enabled TWV Park to take further security measures to ensure truck drivers and their cargo safe. Truck stops play a pivotal role in providing a space for truck drivers who have spent long hours on the road something Emilie and the team are conscious of, when making decisions about the truck park. "To improve well-being, truck drivers need safety and comfort from a truck park," states Emilie. TWV does this particularly well when you look at the amount of choice and variety for drivers at the site. Emilie explains the truck park offers "kitchens with all the appliances, food trucks, and brasserie-style on-site meals." She states that other comforts, such as "sanitary facilities, phone charging access, and air-conditioning," are also available. TWV was one of the stops on our Truckpark Tour in 2023 a ten-stop tour throughout the UK and Europe to give back to the tireless truck-driving community. Emilie explained why they wanted to be a part of it. "When SNAP came to us about the tour, we thought it was a great idea to offer the drivers an extra activity in the park." The teams at SNAP and TWV were kept busy throughout the day, handing out free merchandise and having crucial conversations with drivers. "The event went really well, and the drivers were happy to see SNAP and the team at TWV. The drivers enjoyed the entertainment and goodies on offer and appreciated getting to have a chat," states Emilie. By joining SNAP, you'll put your location in front of 190,000 drivers and over 9,000 fleets. For truck stops like TWV, who are constantly striving to grow their business, SNAP provides the opportunity to do so. "We had no hesitations about joining SNAP and found the setup process easy. Since joining, we have had good communication with the SNAP team," says Emilie. To improve your profitability and optimise your site operations, head to .

Header Image

vendredi 25 octobre 2024 • Nouvelles et mises à jour

DIRECTIVE SUR LE TEMPS DE TRAVAIL DES CONDUCTEURS : UN GUIDE POUR LES CONDUCTEURS DE CAMIONS

Miranda Blake

As a lorry driver in the UK, it’s crucial to have a firm grasp of the complex regulations surrounding driver working hours and rest periods. The Drivers’ Working Time Directive (WTD), also known as the Road Transport Directive, is a set of rules that governs the maximum hours a driver can work, the mandatory breaks they must take, and the required rest periods they must observe. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in hefty fines and even the immobilisation of your vehicle.The Drivers’ Working Time Directive is a European Union legislation that aims to ensure the safety of all road users by preventing fatigue-related accidents. apply to those driving vehicles weighing more than 3.5 tonnes, regardless of whether the individual operates within the UK or across the EU.Under the WTD, truck drivers in the UK are subject to a daily driving cap of 9 hours, which can be increased to 10 hours a maximum of twice per week. After 4.5 hours of continuous or intermittent driving, drivers must take a break of at least 45 minutes. Alternatively, they can opt for a split break, where the first is at least 15 minutes, followed by a second of at least 30 minutes.There’s a weekly driving limit for UK lorry drivers, which is 56 hours, while the fortnightly cap is 90 hours. This means that if a driver clocks 56 hours in 1 week, they can only work for 34 hours the following week to ensure they do not go over the 90-hour fortnightly limit.In addition to the driving time restrictions, the WTD also imposes limits on the total number of hours a driver can work per week. Average weekly working time, including both driving and non-driving tasks, must not surpass 48 hours, calculated over a 17-week or 26-week reference period. Maximum working time in a single week is 60 hours, provided the 48-hour average is not exceeded.The WTD requires to take a daily rest period of at least 11 consecutive hours, which can be split into 2 periods with the first being at least 3 hours long. Drivers can also opt for a reduced daily rest period of nine hours, but this can only be done up to three times per week. Additionally, a weekly rest period of at least 45 hours is mandatory, although this can be lowered to 24 hours once in a 2-week period.While the WTD applies to the majority of UK lorry drivers, there are certain exceptions that may apply in specific circumstances. For example, those who do not drive more than 10 times within a 26-week period or 15 times within a timeframe exceeding 26 weeks may not be required to monitor their working time directive.Failing to adhere to the WTD can have serious consequences for both drivers and . Drivers caught in breach of the regulations can face fines of up to £1,500, and if they break the rules more than 5 times in 28 days, they may be taken to court and have their vehicle immobilised.For fleet operators, the onus is on maintaining compliance throughout the entire fleet. Neglecting to implement sufficient measures to monitor and enforce the WTD can result in the DVSA issuing a notice to improve, and in extreme cases, a requirement to cease operations until the issues are resolved.To effectively manage driver working hours and ensure compliance with the WTD, fleet operators should consider investing in tachograph-integrated fleet management solutions. These purpose-built technologies allow for efficient monitoring of driver behaviour and automatic logging of driving and working time data, making it virtually impossible for non-compliance to go unnoticed.By partnering with a trusted provider like , fleet operators can leverage cutting-edge fleet management tools and gain access to a comprehensive network of service partners, making sure that their drivers have the support they need to stay compliant and safe on the road.There’s also the in the UK to consider. It’s proving to be a big problem within the industry. The industry has seen a drop in HGV drivers – the pandemic delayed 30,000 tests for new drivers, and Brexit hit fleet companies hard – with many European truck drivers leaving the UK. A 2023 report from SNAP suggests the sector could reach a 'tipping point' in the next 10-15 years. It may prove that the Drivers’ Working Time Directive is just what the industry needs to make the profession desirable again and provide better balance for drivers. Learn more about what can be done to tackle the driver shortage by .