The Freight Transport Association has published a completely updated version of its Guide to Managing Drivers, which provides advice and guidance to help operators manage drivers in a professional way.

Drivers are at the forefront of the road freight industry, whose image depends on them. Companies also rely on their drivers to ensure a cost effective road freight operation, keeping fuel use down, minimising vehicle wear and tear, and keeping maintenance, insurance and accident costs down. However, driver actions are also the way in which poor management practices come to the surface, so getting the best out of them is crucial in order to operate vehicles in a cost effective and customer-focused way.

The FTA Guide to Managing Drivers covers recruitment, checking driving entitlement and carrying out inductions through to managing driver's hours, ensuring daily walk around checks are carried out properly and managing driver infringements. It also looks at good practice when using agency drivers and provides sample forms and checklists that will help managers in their day-to-day tasks.