A DIVISION of construction giant Lafarge is to put its staff through a driver-training programme as part of its duty of care to drivers.

Lafarge Roofing will initially put 106 drivers through the Excellence in Professional Driving (EPD) programme run by Ultimate Car Control.

The companies have signed a three-year contract for the programme that includes online risk assessments and a one-day driver-training course.

Lafarge Roofing's quality, safety and environmental manager, Alan Hulcoop, said: 'After recognising the key issues of compliance with legislation, the mounting cost of operating a fleet and the duty of care we owe our employees, we believe this is the most user-friendly and best-value package available.'

Ultimate Car Control managing director Graham Griffiths said: 'The course has been legally endorsed by city law firm Osborne Clarke and guarantees compliance with current legislation through a comprehensive management safety programme.'