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Odpravljanje pomanjkanja voznikov tovornih vozil v Združenem kraljestvu v letih 2024/2025

Ustvarjeno: 16. 08. 2024

Posodobljeno: 10. 10. 2024

Pomanjkanje voznikov tovornih vozil v Združenem kraljestvu je kompleksen in večplasten izziv, ki ima daljnosežne posledice za nacionalno gospodarstvo in dobavne verige. Vendar so usklajena prizadevanja vlade, industrije in zainteresiranih strani začela prinašati pozitivne rezultate, kar kaže na to, da se je trend morda obrnil.

Ko se Združeno kraljestvo ozira proti letoma 2024 in 2025, bo nadaljnja zavezanost reševanju pomanjkanja voznikov, skupaj s poudarkom na privabljanju in zadrževanju nadarjenih posameznikov, ključnega pomena za zagotavljanje dolgoročne odpornosti in blaginje prometnega sektorja.

Globina krize

Pomanjkanje voznikov težkih tovornih vozil v Združenem kraljestvu je vedno bolj zaskrbljujoče, leta 2021 pa bodo razmere dosegle kritično točko. Po poročilih iz panoge se je država na vrhuncu krize soočala s pomanjkanjem približno 100.000 voznikov tovornih vozil. Ta številka je predstavljala znatno povečanje glede na 59.000 manjkajočih voznikov, o katerih so poročali leta 2019, kar poudarja hitro poslabšanje razmer.

Dejavniki, ki so prispevali k temu pomanjkanju, so bili večplastni, vključno z vplivom pandemije COVID-19, posledicami brexita in spremembami davčnih pravil IR35, ki so vplivale na voznike tovornih vozil, ki so jih agencije zaposlovale pogodbeno. Zaradi teh motenj so številni izkušeni vozniki zapustili panogo, medtem ko na trg ni prišlo dovolj novih talentov, ki bi zapolnili nastalo praznino.

Posredovanje vlade in prizadevanja industrije

Vlada Združenega kraljestva in zainteresirane strani v panogi so ob zavedanju resnosti razmer sprejele odločne ukrepe za odpravo pomanjkanja voznikov tovornih vozil. Ministrstvo za promet je poročalo o opaznem izboljšanju, saj se je odstotek prostih delovnih mest za voznike tovornih vozil, o katerih so poročala prevozna podjetja, zmanjšal s 43 % v četrtem četrtletju 2021 na 23 % v tretjem četrtletju 2023.

Eden od ključnih izvedenih ukrepov je bilo povečanje sredstev za privabljanje in usposabljanje novih voznikov tovornih vozil. Vlada je tudi pospešila postopek pridobivanja vozniških dovoljenj za tovorna vozila in vložila 8 milijonov funtov za izboljšanje kakovosti počivališč za tovorna vozila, s čimer je rešila dolgoletno vprašanje slabih delovnih pogojev za voznike.

SNAP je več parkiriščem za tovornjake v Združenem kraljestvu pomagal pri pripravi vlog za vladna sredstva za izboljšanje njihove infrastrukture. Preberite več o parkiriščih za tovornjake vključenih v mrežo SNAP.

Obravnavanje staranja delovne sile in privabljanje mlajših talentov

Eden od stalnih izzivov v panogi voznikov tovornih vozil je staranje delovne sile, saj je povprečna starost voznikov 48 let. Industrija ima težave s privabljanjem mlajših talentov, saj je zaradi slabih delovnih pogojev, povprečnih plač in nezanimive poklicne poti mnoge odvrnila od tega, da bi se odločili za poklic voznika tovornjaka.

Vlada je pred kratkim začela posvetovanje o znižanju minimalne starostne meje za voznike avtobusov, s čimer bi se lahko mladim odprlo več možnosti za vstop v prometni sektor. Ta poteza bi lahko skupaj s prizadevanji za izboljšanje opreme za voznike in delovnih pogojev pripomogla k temu, da bi ta panoga postala privlačnejša za naslednjo generacijo delavcev.

Oglejte si zemljevid parkirišč za tovornjake, avtopralnic za tovornjake in prenočišč v različnih regijah, ki jih pokriva omrežje SNAP.

premagovanje regulativnih ovir in spodbujanje prožnosti

K pomanjkanju voznikov tovornih vozil prispevajo tudi zakonodajne ovire in birokracija, s katerimi se soočajo novi vozniki ob vstopu v panogo. Postopek pridobivanja potrebnih dovoljenj in certifikatov je lahko dolgotrajen in drag, kar odvrača potencialne kandidate.

Zainteresirane strani iz panoge so se zavzele za prožnejše postopke usposabljanja in testiranja, podobne pristopu, ki so ga uporabila avtobusna podjetja. Z racionalizacijo postopka in njegovo večjo dostopnostjo upajo, da se bo povečalo število usposobljenih voznikov, ki vstopajo na trg.

Vpliv brexita in COVID-19

Pomanjkanje voznikov težkih tovornih vozil v Združenem kraljestvu se je dodatno zapletlo zaradi posledic brexita in motenj, ki jih je povzročila pandemija COVID-19. Izguba voznikov iz EU, ki so prej predstavljali pomemben del delovne sile voznikov tovornjakov v Združenem kraljestvu, je bila velik udarec.

Poleg tega je vpliv pandemije na usposabljanje in testiranje povzročil, da na trg vstopajo novi vozniki. Po okrevanju gospodarstva je povečano povpraševanje po blagu in storitvah še bolj obremenilo že tako obremenjen prometni sektor.

Sodelovanje in inovacije

Za odpravo pomanjkanja voznikov težkih tovornih vozil bo potrebno sodelovanje med vlado, zainteresiranimi stranmi v panogi in izobraževalnimi ustanovami. S sodelovanjem lahko razvijejo celovite rešitve, ki bodo odpravile temeljne vzroke problema ter ustvarile bolj trajnosten in odporen prometni sistem.

Ključno vlogo pri zmanjševanju posledic pomanjkanja voznikov ima lahko tudi uporaba inovativnih pristopov, kot je uporaba tehnologije za optimizacijo logistike in izboljšanje učinkovitosti voznikov. Naložbe v infrastrukturo, programe usposabljanja in pobude, usmerjene v voznike, lahko pomagajo pri oblikovanju močnejše, bolj raznolike in odpornejše delovne sile.

Pot naprej

Medtem ko se Združeno kraljestvo spopada z razvijajočim se področjem pomanjkanja voznikov tovornih vozil, je jasno, da bo rešitev zahtevala večplasten pristop. Pri zagotavljanju odpornosti nacionalnega prometnega omrežja bodo bistvenega pomena stalna podpora vlade, sodelovanje industrije ter zavezanost privabljanju in ohranjanju nadarjenih voznikov.

Čeprav krize v bližnji prihodnosti ne bo mogoče v celoti rešiti, pa dosedanji ukrepi dajejo kanček upanja. Z ohranjanjem osredotočenosti na inovacije, prožnost in vključenost si lahko Združeno kraljestvo prizadeva za prihodnost, v kateri bo prometni sektor usposobljen za izpolnjevanje naraščajočih zahtev gospodarstva in potreb državljanov.

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petek 08 november 2024 • Novice in posodobitve

DART CHARGE RAČUN - POENOSTAVITE SVOJA PLAČILA

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 .

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petek 01 november 2024 • Novice in posodobitve

ŠTUDIJA PRIMERA: PARK TWV

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 .

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petek 25 oktober 2024 • Novice in posodobitve

DIREKTIVA O DELOVNEM ČASU VOZNIKOV: VODNIK ZA VOZNIKE TOVORNJAKOV

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 .