The Freight Transport Association (FTA) is offering a new training course for van operators: the Certificate of Excellence for Van Operators.

The course is based on the guidelines contained in the Association’s Van Excellence Code, which was written with advice and support from many of the UK’s best van fleets and represents an ideal basis for the safe and legal operation of vans and light commercial vehicles.

The course is for individuals managing or supervising freight van fleets and is aimed at raising standards across van operations.  FTA’s Van Excellence scheme was launched in 2010 to promote high standards of van operation and driving by accrediting operators against an industry code of good practice.

Mark Cartwright, FTA’s Head of Vans and LCVs, said: “Any organisation operating vehicles as part of its business activity must ensure the safety of drivers and the public, as failure to do so can have serious consequences.  This course will provide van operators with a wealth of best practice guidance for operating safely, legally and efficiently and is designed to help raise standards across van operations.”

The course covers areas such as vehicle maintenance systems, vehicle administration, driver licensing, securing of loads, speed limits/limiters, towing equipment and driver identification, behaviour and competence.  All delegates will undertake an assessment at the end of the course and on successful completion will be issued with an FTA Certificate of Excellence, valid for a period of three years.