Can it help stem driver shortage

Developments in state-of-the-art telematics could be the answer to the haulage industry’s driver shortage, with leading providers highlighting the advantages of the latest technology in a bid to recruit new blood behind the wheel.

Lobby groups and technology companies are increasingly working hand-in-hand to drive forward new high-tech developments, while at the same time ensuring that in-cab telematics are seen as an aid to drivers rather than a ‘spy in the cab’.

“There’s a common misconception that in-cab systems are there to monitor driver behaviour,” said Bob Harbey, Executive Director at telematics provider Microlise. “But increasingly the software systems in the cab are there to protect the driver and support him or her as a professional.”

“Many incidents on the road are not the fault of truck drivers, but historically they would frequently get the blame, and that’s a negative perception that, traditionally, may have put people off applying to work as drivers. But with on-board systems that are not only camera based, but also recognise how a truck has been driven immediately prior to an incident occurring, such systems can support and protect the driver. Often another road user is at fault, and these systems can prove this.”

Microlise is one of several telematics providers offering software as a service in the haulage industry, covering all areas from signed-for deliveries, journey management and fleet performance statistics. Traditionally, these have been marketed towards the operator, but increasingly the benefits for the driver are becoming more apparent.

“You only have to look at some of the challenges drivers and hauliers face from a compliance point-of-view to see how telematics systems can protect both drivers’ and operators’ licences,” added Harbey. “Systems that bring the driver and the operator closer together allow businesses to become more integrated and allow the driver of a truck to operate as a professional, not just when behind the wheel, but in other areas of the business. Driving is much, much more than just getting behind the wheel, and can be a fulfilling career.”

Harber’s views are recognised by one of the industry’s leading pressure groups, the Road Haulage Association.

“Telematics systems are much more than an in-cab monitoring tool, they are also significant in helping drivers stay safe and secure, and this should add an extra layer of reassurance to anyone wanting a career in the haulage industry,” said the RHA’s Infrastucture and Security manager, Chrys Rampley.

Current estimates suggest the driver shortage is a growing crisis, with a shortfall of as many as 45,000 drivers expected in the next decade.

It’s a difficult problem to manage, and could have a significant macro-economic impact if Britain’s hauliers are unable to deliver the goods.

Indeed, the problem runs so deep that hauliers and telematics companies have started to work together to address the gulf.

At last month’s Road Transport Conference, Microlise, the RHA and ex-forces charity Care After Combat launched the ‘Road to Logistics' campaign, with a direct focus on attracting ex-military personnel approaching the end of their service to train as drivers. The campaign will also work on bringing reformed offenders into the industry and is focused directly on training to address the skills shortage.

“Care After Combat has the source for potential drivers, Microlise will create the training academies, and we, through our membership, have the jobs,” said Richard Burnett, RHA Chief Executive. “Road to Logistics will create and maintain a national training programme to encourage new talent into the transport and logistics industry from sections of society where individuals need help and support to regain their self-confidence and independence.”

“Before training even begins, candidates will be rigorously assessed for their suitability, including a thorough medical examination. Those that pass will have to sign up to a strict Road to Logistics code of conduct. The Code will cover all aspects of their behaviour and professionalism and will ensure that their prospective employers can be confident that they will be taking on someone in whom that confidence is well placed.”

“We have an objective to have 30 to 50 drivers through the programme by Christmas,” said Bob Harbey, who is also Road to Logistics Chief Executive. “We want to walk before we run and ensure that the programme is nationally scalable.”

“The aim is to gather evidence during the pilot phase to show the exchequer that there is a net gain to the economy by running this programme. We then hope to secure further funding to increase the numbers of new professional drivers being created, while providing them with the software to remain safe and professional”.

Road to Logistics will be a significant element of the RHA’s National Lorry Week, which takes place on September 19-24 to highlight the role road haulage plays in daily life and attract new blood into the industry.

The campaign will illustrate how the UK haulage industry is modern, IT driven and has the potential for being a lifetime career, with a major focus on the influence of telematics and the very latest business technology in modernising the delivery sector. At a time when the industry is still suffering from a massive driver shortage, not helped by an old-fashioned image, the message is critical to the future of road-based logistics.

During National Lorry Week, several events will be held at separate venues in the UK, culminating in a high-profile industry day at Bruntingthorpe Proving Ground in Leicestershire, where the public will be able to get behind the wheel of an HGV for themselves in a safe, controlled environment.