Test Owner

Test Owner

Friday, 06 September 2024 16:28

Summer Driving

Summer, from June to August, brings heat and occasional heatwaves to the UK. Whether you're working in a hot cab or taking a long drive, these tips will help you stay cool and safe.

Before Heading Out

  • Check your tyres: High temperatures can increase tyre pressure and wear. Make sure they're properly inflated and inspect for damage to avoid blowouts, especially on long journeys
  • Brakes: Heat can cause brakes to lose effectiveness. If you're carrying a heavy load downhill, shift to a lower gear to reduce strain on the brakes
  • Engine oil & coolant: Low coolant can lead to overheating. Consider using higher-viscosity oil to protect the engine during hot weather
  • Air-conditioning: Ensure your air-con works before a heatwave. Book a re-gas if needed
  • Pack cool essentials: Consider a mini fridge for cold drinks, and freeze water bottles. Keep cooling sprays or handheld fan misters ready for breaks

On the Road

  • Stay hydrated: Dehydration can impair driving just like alcohol. Drink plenty of water, especially on long journeys
  • Wear cool clothing: Opt for light, breathable fabrics to stay comfortable
  • Parked up: Keep the air-con running if you need to wait in the vehicle, as temperatures inside can rise quickly
  • Wear a hat & sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun’s glare and UV rays with a hat and proper sunglasses. Avoid overly dark tints, as they can impair vision and may be illegal for driving
  • Sunscreen: Protect your skin from sunburn, even inside the vehicle

Air-Con vs Open Windows

At low speeds, like in town, open windows are fine for staying cool. However, at higher speeds, like on motorways, using air-con is more fuel-efficient due to wind resistance

Keeping Your Cab Cool

Where possible, avoid driving during the hottest parts of the day and try to park in shaded areas. Use windscreen sunshades to reflect the heat when parking in direct sunlight.

Staying cool is key to staying safe, so plan ahead and take care during the summer months.

Disclaimer

This information has been gathered from sources including GOV.UK and RoSPA. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Quicktemp and its affiliates accept no liability for any errors or omissions.

Friday, 06 September 2024 16:21

Drivers Wellbeing

As a professional driver, your health and well-being are critical to your safety and performance at work. Here are some practical tips to help you stay in top condition and drive safely.

1. Daily Vehicle Checks

Before any journey, conduct a thorough walk-round check to ensure the vehicle is safe and roadworthy. This is vital not only for your safety but for others on the road.

  • Inside the cab: Check access, seat position, seatbelts, mirrors, and controls
  • Wheels & tyres: Look for damage and ensure wheel nuts are secure
  • Other checks: Verify visibility, load security, brakes, fuel, fluids, and couplings

2. Get Enough Sleep

Fatigue is a factor in 20% of all road accidents. Ensure you're well-rested before starting any journey.

  • Lack of sleep impact’s reaction times and decision-making
  • Take regular breaks and pull over if you feel drowsy
  • Follow Drivers' Hours Rules to stay safe

3. Adapt to Weather Conditions

Weather can significantly affect driving conditions. Be prepared for anything from rain to bright sunshine.

  • Adjust your driving speed and style to match road conditions
  • Always check the weather forecast before starting your trip

4. Safe Loading

Handling and loading can be hazardous, so safety should be a top priority.

  • Follow all safety rules and signage and stay aware of other vehicles and personnel
  • Inspect equipment for damage and ensure the load is secure, not overweight, and doesn’t block your vision

5. Mind Your Speed

Driving too fast contributes to 28% of fatal crashes in the UK.

  • Know the speed limits and stopping distances for your vehicle
  • Reducing speed by just 1mph can lower crash rates by 5%
  • Practice defensive driving to reduce speed, fuel consumption, and stress

6. Avoid Distractions and Manage Stress

Distractions and stress can cause a lapse in concentration while driving.

  • Obvious distractions include adjusting the radio or using a phone
  • Emotional stress from personal issues can impact your focus
  • It is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving – keep it out of reach

7. Handling Accidents and Breakdowns

In case of an accident or breakdown, your safety is the priority.

  • Use the hard shoulder or an emergency refuge area if possible and turn on hazard lights
  • Exit the vehicle from the passenger side, away from traffic
  • If you're unable to move the vehicle, contact the police immediately

8. Focus on Your Health

Staying physically and mentally fit is crucial for your well-being as a driver.

  • Diet: Maintain a balanced diet, limit fast food, and stay hydrated
  • Exercise: Stay active by walking when you can and keeping fit outside work
  • Eye Tests: Regular eye checks are essential – poor vision can lead to accidents

9. Personal Safety

HGV drivers may face risks such as theft or physical attack, particularly when carrying valuable loads.

  • Always remove your keys and lock your vehicle when leaving it
  • Plan your route and keep load documentation out of sight
  • Park in well-lit, secure areas, especially at night

10. Mental Health Matters

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Professional drivers are identified as a high-risk group for mental health issues.

  • If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, don't hesitate to seek help
  • Remember, it's okay to talk about mental health – you’re not alone

These tips are a guide to help keep you safe and well on the road. Stay vigilant and take care of both your physical and mental health.

Disclaimer

This information has been gathered from sources including GOV.UK and RoSPA. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Quicktemp and its affiliates accept no liability for any errors or omissions.

Friday, 06 September 2024 16:05

Drivers CPC

The Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) is a mandatory qualification for LGV (Large Goods Vehicle) and PCV (Passenger Carrying Vehicle) drivers, aimed at improving road safety and enhancing driver skills. Introduced under EU Directive 2003/59, it became a legal requirement for LGV drivers on 10th September 2009. All professional drivers must hold a Driver Qualification Card (DQC) to drive commercially, with only a few exemptions.

CPC Requirements

  • New LGV Drivers: Those obtaining a category C, C1, C+E, or C1+E licence must also obtain the initial Driver CPC to drive professionally. Following this, drivers are required to complete 35 hours of periodic training every five years
  • Existing Drivers: Drivers with ‘acquired rights’ don’t need to take an initial test but must also complete 35 hours of training within each five-year period to keep their Driver CPC valid

Driving without a valid Driver CPC can lead to fines of up to £1,000 for both the driver and the operator, and drivers can be suspended from work until they comply.

Driver Qualification Card (DQC)

The DQC is valid for five years, with an expiry date specific to each driver. To maintain it, drivers must complete 35 hours of periodic training, which can be taken in blocks of seven hours. It’s recommended to complete at least one seven-hour course per year to spread the cost and time commitment.

Maximising CPC Training Benefits

CPC training enhances driver skills, improves safety, and increases employability. Drivers can select modules based on their job requirements or areas they wish to develop.

Steps to Complete Driver CPC:

  • Plan your 35 hours of training: You can spread it over five years, completing at least seven hours at a time. Taking one day (seven hours) per year is a recommended approach.
  • Ask your employer for support: Employers may assist in organising or funding your CPC training.
  • Book a JAUPT-approved course: Choose a reputable provider and ensure the course is approved by JAUPT. Quicktemp can guide you to suitable options.
  • Complete the course: There’s no test; completion is based on attendance.
  • Obtain your DQC: After finishing 35 hours of training, apply for your DQC and carry it while driving professionally.

What Will You Learn?

Courses vary but can cover topics such as

  • Fuel-efficient driving
  • EU Drivers' Hours and RT(WT)R
  • Digital Tachograph usage
  • Health & Safety
  • Road traffic laws
  • Customer service
  • Dealing with incidents on the road

To learn more about Driver CPC and available courses, contact Quicktemp for advice and booking.

Disclaimer

This information has been gathered from sources including GOV.UK and RoSPA. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Quicktemp and its affiliates accept no liability for any errors or omissions.

Friday, 06 September 2024 16:02

Walk Round Checks

Every driver has the responsibility to carry out a Daily Walk Round Check before setting off. This check ensures the vehicle is roadworthy, the load is secure, and that neither poses a risk to other road users or pedestrians.

Failing to meet the required standards during a DVSA roadside inspection can result in serious consequences. Drivers risk penalty points on their licence, while operators could face Prohibition Notices, DVSA investigations, and even prosecution.

Key Questions for the Walk Round Check:

  • Does everything work properly?
  • Is everything secure?
  • Can you control the vehicle effectively?
  • Is anything damaged or missing?
  • Could the vehicle or load cause harm or be a nuisance?

1. Inside the Cab

  • Ensure the cab access is clean, safe, and undamaged.
  • Check that the seat is secure and properly adjusted for control and visibility.
  • Ensure the seatbelt is functioning and worn as required.
  • Confirm a clear view to the front.
  • Verify that the Operator’s Licence is present and valid.
  • Ensure the tachograph is working correctly.
  • Adjust mirrors and confirm your view isn’t obstructed.
  • Test wipers, washers, lights, and all other electrical components.
  • Check dashboard warning lights and the horn.
  • Ensure driving controls, including steering, parking brake, and footbrake, are working.
  • Check that the footbrake operates on both tractor and trailer.
  • Listen for air exhaust from tractor and trailer brakes.
  • If ABS is fitted, ensure it is functioning correctly.
  • Start the engine and listen for air leaks while checking for excessive exhaust noise or smoke.

2. Wheels and Tyres

  • Inspect tyre walls and treads for wear, exposed cord, bulges, or tears.
  • Check for under-inflated tyres, particularly inner tyres on twin wheel sets.
  • Look for any missing wheel nuts.
  • Ensure wheel nuts show no signs of loosening.
  • Check mudguards and spray suppression equipment for proper fitting and security.

Carrying out these checks ensures safety and compliance, reducing risks for both drivers and operators.

Disclaimer

This information has been gathered from sources including GOV.UK and RoSPA. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Quicktemp and its affiliates accept no liability for any errors or omissions.

Thursday, 05 September 2024 11:24

Cargo Crime

With over 31 million commercial vehicles on European roads, organised cargo crime is a significant risk. The value of stolen cargo has risen by 41% since 2007, with an average loss per incident of €68.3k. Across Europe, the total value of stolen cargo reaches €11.6bn annually, with 1,500-2,000 reported incidents each year.

However, by implementing simple security measures, you can reduce the risk of cargo crime impacting your business.

Keeping Your Drivers Safe

Professional drivers, both HGV and LCV, face high risks, especially when operating alone. Hijacking and theft are particular threats. Drivers should

  • Be wary of fake police or DVSA officers
  • Stay alert for bogus road diversions or closures
  • Avoid being tricked by "round-the-corner" thefts, where they're diverted to a false delivery location
  • If asked to stop, keep the engine running, doors locked, and windows closed until sure it's genuine
  • Never stop for hitchhikers or offer roadside assistance
  • Keep mobile phones charged and be vigilant of vehicles following them for long periods

The Hidden Costs of Cargo Crime

Cargo theft affects more than just the stolen goods. Hidden costs include

  • Replacing stolen items or covering insurance shortfalls
  • Repair and recovery costs for damaged vehicles
  • Vehicle hire while repairs are being done
  • Damage to business reputation
  • Penalties for late deliveries
  • Increased insurance premiums
  • Time spent on administration and investigations
  • Driver impacts, such as stress or injury, leading to lost workdays

Preventing Terrorism: Vehicles as Weapons

Between 2015 and 2019, 15 terrorist attacks across Europe involved commercial vehicles, causing 140 deaths. While these attacks are hard to predict, simple security measures can help reduce the risk. Both employers and drivers play a role.

For Employers

  • Include security instructions in driver handbooks and during inductions
  • Use driver photo ID cards and establish procedures for reporting delays

For Drivers

  • Always lock and secure the vehicle when leaving the cab
  • Keep keys on your person
  • Stick to planned routes but avoid using the same route repeatedly
  • Report suspicious behaviour immediately

Security Measures for Cargo Protection

  • Ensure the vehicle is suitable for securely transporting goods
  • Use strong locking systems to reduce theft risk
  • Implement a clear in-transit security policy, including rules about staying with the load and where drivers can stop. Continuously review these procedures
  • Always remove keys and lock the doors when leaving the cab, and avoid accessing the load while en route
  • Ensure proper paperwork and clear responsibility for unloading. Remind drivers to be cautious of deception techniques

Cargo at Rest, Cargo at Risk

A high percentage of theft occurs at weekends or from vehicles parked in unsecured areas. To minimise risk, don’t leave vehicles loaded longer than necessary, especially in unsecured locations.

By staying vigilant and implementing these security measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of cargo crime and keep both your business and drivers safe.

Disclaimer

This information has been gathered from sources including GOV.UK and RoSPA. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Quicktemp and its affiliates accept no liability for any errors or omissions.

Thursday, 05 September 2024 11:22

Bridge Strikes

On average, large goods vehicles (LGVs) and buses hit five bridges across the UK every day. In 2019, Network Rail reported 1,787 bridge strikes, calling the situation unacceptable. The aftermath of these strikes is expensive, costing an average of £13,000 per incident, amounting to £23 million annually. The costliest single strike in 2019 led to £1.8 million in train delay costs. With Network Rail now able to claim these costs from hauliers, avoiding bridge strikes is crucial for both safety and financial reasons.

Common Causes of Bridge Strikes

  • Drivers not knowing their vehicle height
  • Poor route planning
  • Using car sat navs that don't account for low bridges
  • Misunderstanding or missing road signs

How to Avoid Bridge Strikes

Know Your Vehicle's Height

  • If your vehicle's travelling height exceeds 3 metres, it’s legally required to display the correct height in the cab
  • 43% of drivers admit they don’t measure their vehicle height before setting off
  • HGV heights can change based on load, trailer adjustments, or coupler height. Always double-check and display the correct height after loading

Plan Your Route

  • 52% of drivers don’t account for low bridges in their route planning
  • Use vehicle-specific sat navs and refer to atlases or local authority resources that provide information on low bridge height limits
  • If your vehicle exceeds 4.95 metres in height, consult local authorities to verify your route
  • If diverted, drivers should stop and seek alternative routes to avoid low bridges

Pay Attention to Arched Bridges

  • The height indicated on arched bridges only applies to the centre, marked by goalposts and white road lines
  • If your load is 3 metres or more in width, the available height may be less than what’s signed

Understand the Signs

  • Low bridges with heights under 4.95 metres are usually marked with advance warning signs
  • Red circle signs prohibit access; red triangle signs warn of danger ahead

What to Do If You Hit a Bridge

  • Don’t leave the scene – keep the vehicle where it is
  • Report the strike immediately using the number displayed on the bridge's ID plate
  • Call 999 and notify the police
  • Keep the public at a safe distance

Consequences of a Bridge Strike

  • Disruption to rail services and danger to passengers
  • Delays and congestion on surrounding roads
  • Prosecution of drivers, potentially leading to loss of licence or imprisonment
  • Transport operators are liable for the cost of bridge repairs, recovery, and delayed rail services

Notable Example

One bridge on the A142 in Ely, Cambridgeshire, was hit 32 times in a single year.

By following these precautions, you can help prevent costly and dangerous bridge strikes. Stay aware, plan ahead, and always know your vehicle’s height.

Disclaimer

This information has been gathered from sources including GOV.UK and RoSPA. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Quicktemp and its affiliates accept no liability for any errors or omissions.

Thursday, 05 September 2024 11:21

Breakdown Safety

Breaking down not only wastes time and money but also poses a significant risk, with 250 people killed or seriously injured on the hard shoulder every year. Knowing how to handle a breakdown is vital for your safety and that of other road users. Here’s how to avoid breakdowns and stay safe if one occurs.

How to Avoid a Breakdown

  • Most breakdowns can be avoided with proper vehicle maintenance
  • Ensure your vehicle is regularly serviced, including checks on wipers, tyres, and fluid levels
  • Report any issues immediately
  • Make sure you're familiar with the meaning of your vehicle's warning lights

Be Prepared

  • Always have a charged mobile phone (switched off and stored safely while driving)
  • Keep essentials like high-visibility clothing, a torch, water, and a reflective triangle

General Breakdown Procedures

  • Avoid stopping in dangerous locations like roundabouts or bends. Never park on pavements
  • Activate hazard lights immediately
  • If possible, drive at a reduced speed to a safer spot off the road or onto a straight section
  • Place the warning triangle at least 45 metres behind your vehicle (not on motorways)
  • Call a breakdown service and wait for professional help
  • Turn off the engine and wait in a safe location, away from traffic

Motorway Breakdown Procedures

  • Exit at the next available opportunity or pull into a service area
  • If you must stop, pull over to the hard shoulder, turn the wheels left, and park as close to the left as possible
  • Switch on hazard lights and sidelights if visibility is poor
  • Don’t use your warning triangle on the hard shoulder
  • Wait for assistance and do not attempt repairs on the roadside

Tyre Blowout

  • Tyre blowouts can make steering difficult, particularly with a front tyre failure
  • Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and slowly guide the vehicle to the left
  • Reduce speed steadily and come to a stop on the hard shoulder or roadside

Calling for Help

  • Use the nearest emergency phone on motorways, located via blue and white marker posts.
  • If using a mobile, refer to the blue rectangular Driver Location Signs for the road number, travel direction, and location.

Waiting for Help

  • Always leave the vehicle, ensuring everyone exits from the left-hand side.
  • Walk off the road and, if possible, up an embankment or behind a crash barrier.
  • Never attempt to cross lanes on a motorway.

By following these steps, you can stay safe and help ensure that your vehicle is recovered quickly in the event of a breakdown.

Disclaimer

This information has been gathered from sources including GOV.UK and RoSPA. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Quicktemp and its affiliates accept no liability for any errors or omissions.

Thursday, 05 September 2024 11:19

Vulnerable Road Users

Certain groups on the road, such as motorcyclists, cyclists, horse riders, and pedestrians, are more vulnerable because they aren’t protected by a vehicle body and are harder for drivers to see. Awareness and extra caution can help prevent accidents.

Key Reminders

  • Double-check for these road users before manoeuvring
  • Stay aware of what’s happening around you
  • Remember, many of these users don’t understand how commercial vehicles operate, so make allowances for them

Motorcyclists

  • Although motorcyclists make up just 1% of UK road traffic, they account for 20% of all road fatalities
  • Motorcyclists are 38 times more likely to be killed in accidents than car occupants per mile ridden

Tips

  • Take longer to look for motorbikes, especially at junctions
  • Check for motorcyclists before changing lanes or turning
  • Don’t underestimate their speed when approaching a junction
  • Maintain a safe distance; driving too close can intimidate less experienced riders

Cyclists

With the rise of cycling as a commuting option, the risks at junctions have increased. Cycle lanes allow cyclists to pass on the left of queuing traffic, which can lead to dangerous situations.

Key Facts

  • Half of fatal collisions between trucks and bikes occur when trucks are turning left at junctions

Safety Tips

  • Always double-check your blind spots before turning left
  • Avoid overtaking cyclists and then turning across their path
  • Give cyclists plenty of room when overtaking – at least 1 metre
  • Be mindful of the turbulence your vehicle can create

Pedestrians

Pedestrians, especially children, the elderly, and disabled individuals, are among the most vulnerable on the road. Stay extra cautious in crowded areas and residential streets.

Did You Know?

  • 60 child pedestrians are killed or seriously injured every week in the UK
  • Nearly half of pedestrian fatalities are aged over 60

Tips

  • Watch for distracted pedestrians, especially children who may dart into the road
  • Be cautious when passing parked vehicles, especially near ice cream vans
  • Allow extra time and space for older pedestrians or those with mobility challenges

Horse Riders

Accidents involving horses mostly occur on minor roads. Horses can be unpredictable and easily spooked.

Safety Tips

  • Slow down and give horses plenty of room when passing
  • Turn down your music and avoid revving your engine near horses
  • Pay attention to signals from horse riders, as they may indicate they are turning

Overtaking and Mirrors

When overtaking or changing lanes on motorways, always check your wide-angle mirrors to ensure there’s no fast-approaching traffic. Most motorway accidents occur when vehicles shift lanes without checking properly.

Mirror Use

  • Before setting off, ensure your mirrors give you a clear view down both sides of the trailer
  • Stay aware of blind spots
  • Use mirrors frequently to stay updated on your surroundings
  • Always remember to mirror, signal, then manoeuvre – that final glance can prevent an accident

Being vigilant, particularly around vulnerable road users, can make a significant difference in keeping everyone safe. Stay alert, and always double-check your surroundings.

Disclaimer

This information has been gathered from sources including GOV.UK and RoSPA. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Quicktemp and its affiliates accept no liability for any errors or omissions.

Thursday, 05 September 2024 11:14

Accidents and Emergencies

An accident is defined as any event where you have

  • Damaged the road or highway
  • Damaged third-party property
  • Caused injury to someone other than yourself
  • Damaged another vehicle or had your vehicle damaged by another party

No matter how minor the accident seems, follow this procedure

  • Stop Immediately – Provide your name, address, vehicle registration, and owner details to anyone with a reasonable request
  • Notify the Police – Report the accident to the police within 24 hours
  • Inform Your Employer – Contact the team at Quicktemp and the client immediately
  • Warn Other Traffic – Use hazard warning lights or a red warning triangle
  • Never Admit Liability – Do not accept blame at the scene
  • Stay Calm – Keep a level head and control your emotions

Gathering Information

While you’re only required to give your name and address, avoid admitting liability. If asked by the police, take a moment to gather your thoughts and provide a clear explanation of what happened.

Where possible, collect the following information from others involved

  • Names and addresses of drivers/owners
  • Registration numbers of other vehicles
  • Names and addresses of witnesses
  • Badge numbers of any police officers
  • Insurance details of other drivers

Also, note

  • The extent of damage
  • Pre-existing damage/defects on vehicles
  • Vehicle details (make, registration, tyre condition)
  • Speeds, signals, and any horn use
  • Positions of vehicles, road markings, traffic signs, etc.

Information to Record About Yourself

  • Your name and date of birth
  • Vehicle registration and any trailer numbers
  • Details of damage to your vehicle
  • Speed and whether you were signalling
  • Date, time, and location of the accident
  • Weather conditions and street lighting
  • Witness information
  • Sketch a map of the accident scene

Reporting the Accident

Report any accident that causes injury or damage to property, especially if it involves:

  • Another person or animal not in your vehicle
  • A vehicle other than yours
  • Roadside property such as trees, lamp posts, or mailboxes

Accidents Involving Dangerous Substances

If an accident involves hazardous materials, the ADR-certified driver is the most qualified to handle the situation until emergency services arrive. The main risks include fire and the release of dangerous substances.

Fire

Fire requires three elements: oxygen, fuel, and ignition (from sources like sparks, cigarettes, or faulty wiring). Fires are extinguished by removing one of these elements.

All ADR vehicles must carry fire extinguishers

  • One 2kg dry powder extinguisher for cab fires
  • One 6kg dry powder extinguisher for load fires

When tackling a fire

  • Prioritise your own safety
  • React calmly and assess the situation
  • Only tackle the fire if it is safe
  • Move people away from the fire area
  • Never fight fires involving pressurised containers (e.g. aerosols)

Preventing Fire

  • Regularly check and maintain your vehicle
  • Keep the cab free of rubbish and potential ignition sources
  • Avoid loading flammable materials with oxidizers

Release of Dangerous Substances

  • Provide details of your load and location
  • Assist injured individuals if safe
  • Secure the Scene
  • Move the vehicle to a safer location if possible.
  • Stop the engine.
  • Provide emergency services with load details.
  • Use protective gear and isolate the battery if necessary.
  • Keep people and ignition sources away.
  • Use warning triangles and contain the spillage if safe.

Never

  • Put yourself in danger
  • Fight large fires with a cab extinguisher
  • Enter confined spaces where gas build-up is possible

When Emergency Services Arrive

  • Provide them with all relevant load details
  • Inform them of any actions you’ve taken
  • Notify the client and the team at Quicktemp as soon as possible

Breakdown Procedure

  • Move to a Safe Location – Avoid obstructing traffic or causing an accident.
  • Inform the Client – Providing:
    • Your name and contact details
    • Vehicle location and status (loaded or not)
    • Remaining delivery points
    • Vehicle make, model, and registration
    • Specific details about any faults (e.g., tyre size, tail-lift model, or windscreen damage)

For breakdowns on motorways, ensure the police are informed and updated as your situation progresses.

Disclaimer

This information has been gathered from sources including GOV.UK and RoSPA. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Quicktemp and its affiliates accept no liability for any errors or omissions.

The UK government has announced £10.5 million in funding to help ports prepare for the new EU border checks that are set to be introduced this autumn. This financial support will assist the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone, and Eurostar at St Pancras in implementing the EU's new Entry/Exit System (EES).

The EES will require travellers from the UK and other non-EU countries to undergo digital border checks, including the capture of biometric data such as fingerprints and photographs. This system is intended to replace traditional passport stamping, with registration valid for three years after the initial entry. The government’s funding is aimed at equipping these ports with the necessary technology to ensure smooth processing and reduce queue times for travellers.

Initially scheduled to begin in 2022, the EES has faced several delays and is now expected to launch in November 2024. The funds will be used by the Port of Dover to expand its processing facilities, while Eurostar and Eurotunnel will focus on upgrading technology and training staff to meet the new requirements. Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood highlighted the importance of minimizing queue times at the ports, despite the EES being an EU-led initiative. Officials from Eurostar and Getlink, which manages Eurotunnel, have also emphasised their commitment to a smooth transition, having already invested significant resources in preparation for the system's rollout.

Each port is set to receive £3.5 million from the government to support these preparations, marking the first allocation of funds specifically aimed at preventing delays related to the EES. This investment is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring that the new border checks do not cause significant disruptions for travellers.

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