The Abnormal Loads Group met with the National Police Chief’s Council (NPCC) and police leaders from across the country yesterday (Wednesday 6 November) in a major milestone for the industry.
The policing of abnormal loads has become increasingly inconsistent in recent years creating significant challenges for the haulage industry and the vital sectors it supports including caravans, construction, manufacturing and renewables.
The group and officers discussed solutions to improve consistency in the policing of abnormal load movements, and the industry has been working with the police to produce updated national guidance.
The NPCC is encouraging greater consistency and best practice amongst forces and is committed to publishing the updated guidance before the end of the year to assist officers.
Areas we discussed included:
- The procedures that forces should adopt for notifications, emphasising that anything less than 30-day notifications will impose administrative burdens and delays which will increase risk
- The proportionate use of embargoes, particularly on non-notifiable (police) movements and the discretion that should be exercised for short notice requests where there is a risk to life, the environment or supporting critical national infrastructure
- The provision of police escorts and circumstances where escorts are necessary
- The need for adequate training for abnormal loads officers to ensure consistency
Road safety is paramount, and the industry is committed to working with the police to increase compliance and reduce road safety risks.
The Abnormal Loads Group is supported by a cross section of leading industry trade associations including RHA, HTA, NCC, and BHHPA.
