All drivers must have access to welfare facilities in premises they visit as part of their work

When you’ve just got to go… and the relaxation of drivers rules…

The HSE has received reports that some delivery drivers are not being allowed to use welfare facilities when they deliver. Preventing access is against the law, equally it’s not the sensible thing to do.

Those who already provide reasonable access to toilets and handwashing facilities should continue to do so.

With the latest advice for hands to be washed regularly, failure to allow access to welfare facilities may increase the risk of the COVID-19 infection spreading.

HSE has been aware for some time of concerns around access to welfare facilities for visiting delivery drivers. They have reviewed their approach including guidance to duty holders and re-examined the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, in particular Regulations 20 and 21. They will begin to update their guidance to say that drivers must have access to welfare facilities in the premises they visit as part of their work. As this is likely to take some time, key stakeholders are being informed now. The welfare of all workers is a priority and they have consistently said that drivers should have this sort of access.

They also recognise that the majority of duty holders do already provide reasonable access to toilets.

Read HSE’s guidance here.

Temporary and limited relaxation of drivers’ hours rules

The Department for Transport (DfT) have today announced that there will be a temporary and limited relaxation of the enforcement of drivers’ hours rules in England, Scotland, and Wales for the drivers of vehicles involved in the delivery of:

• food

• non-food (personal care and household paper and cleaning)

• over the counter pharmaceuticals

We are clear that driver safety must not be compromised, and they should not be expected to drive whilst tired. Employers remain responsible for the health and safety of their employees, other road users, and anyone involved in loading and unloading vehicles. These arrangements may change during this time so you need to keep up-to-date on developments. You can find more detailed information at:

• Temporary relaxation of the EU drivers’ hours rules

• COVID-19: guidance on freight transport

For help and advice with your fleet insurance, speak to Justin Gould on 0800542 0672 or email sales@neilwillies.co.uk