In response to the recent terror attacks that have seen vehicles used as weapons across the UK and Europe, RTITB has launched a new Master Driver CPC course, Counterterrorism Measures for the Professional LGV Driver.
As of October 2018, the threat level of terrorism in the UK, has been set by the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre and the Security Service (MI5) at “severe”, meaning that an attack is “highly likely”.
“Although statistically the risk of incident is relatively low for individual LGV Drivers, in these uncertain times it is important for all drivers to learn how the threat of terrorism affects them, as well as to equip them with the skills and knowledge to help prevent incidents,” explains Laura Nelson, Managing Director for RTITB.
Supported by case study examples and current statistics, one of the key topics covered in the course addresses weapons that can be used by a terrorist, including guns, bombs and even the vehicle itself. “The use of vehicles as weapons is a relatively new strategy that professional LGV drivers must be made aware of and trained to avoid or manage.” Laura adds.
As weapons, LGVs are more easily accessible than guns or bombs which may need to be imported or manufactured. For example, a terrorist could obtain an LGV through hijacking, by stealing an unattended vehicle, or with the right paperwork, even by simply renting one.
Through identifying when they are most at risk, such as at night when sleeping in cabs or leaving vehicles unattended, or when driving through ports, drivers taking the new RTITB course will learn preventative steps and techniques to minimise vehicle security risks. To empower them to become more vigilant in their day to day operations, drivers will also learn how to spot key signs of suspicious behaviour, so that they can confidently identify and report any suspicious activity.
Drivers will also learn what steps they can take in the event of a terrorist incident, covering attacks on site, in their vehicles and in public. This includes several potential scenarios such as direct bomb threats, finding suspicious packages, encountering terrorists with firearms, suffering attacks on the driver’s vehicle, armed police response and vehicle hijacking.
The course also includes discussion of UK counterterrorism legislation and how this might impact the professional driver’s role, as well as additional information and guidance to further improve knowledge of counterterrorism.
“Professional LGV drivers play such an important role in our logistics and transport sector and it is important to provide comprehensive training to help keep them safe and confident in their workplace,” says Laura. “On completion of this course, professional drivers will have a comprehensive understanding of how the current threat of terrorism affects them, the risks involved in being responsible for an LGV, and more importantly, they will be equipped to help prevent incidents. This is a significant and timely addition to the RTITB Master Driver CPC Course that will contribute to enhanced security and safety for our drivers and the general public.”
The 7 hour standalone course can be added as part of the Master Driver CPC training suite, for just £80 +VAT. For more information, call the Solutions team on 01952 520207.