Next week’s FTA Utilities and Essential Services Conference will focus on compliance, what it means on a day-to-day basis and how it can cuts costs for the freight and logistics industry.

With finances being a primary concern to all, the 2014 Freight Transport Association Conference will examine the ‘bottom line' costs and consequences to freight operators who are non-compliant. Through talking to its members, FTA recognises that compliance plays a key role in cuttings costs for many, and knows how important that both the operator and the driver should understand that. 

A scheduled presentation included at the conference is entitled "An overview of compliance", and will discuss the roles that both the operator and driver play; discussing elements ranging from tachograph analysis to the costs involved in dealing with an offence and Public Inquiry.

Presenting that session will be FTA's head of member advice, Es Shepherd, who said: "The operator has an over-riding duty of care to all employees and members of the public, but an incident involving a vehicle away from base is not always directly under their control although they could be held liable for the consequences. 

“An important part of their role must be to manage compliance and to ensure that the necessary controls are in place to be able to demonstrate that."

Shepherd added: "The driver also plays an essential part in ensuring operator compliance on the road, after all they are the ambassadors for their company and it is vital for each and every driver to understand their liabilities and obligations towards compliance."

There is still an opportunity for delegates to enrol for the event scheduled to take place on Tuesday (May 20), at the National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham.