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4 April 2005 - Highways Agency Publish New
Code of Practice for Abnormal Load Escorts
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The Highways Agency have published a new voluntary Code of
Practice applicable to haulage and escort companies who transport loads on
British roads.
The aim of the new Code of Practice, supported by British Police
Forces and principal haulage associations, is to maximise safety when escorting
abnormal loads, by means of a statement of best practice.
Following recommendations from Sir David O'Dowd's report on the
reduction of police bureaucracy, police forces in England and Wales decided in
the early part of 2004 to discontinue the provision of escorting abnormal loads,
which would free up police officers to cover other duties and accepted hauliers
and escort companies providing services of their own.
The police, however, will still attend with prior agreement,
where traffic control is required, as with the largest and heaviest loads.
The new guidance is directed at self-escorts and contains
information such as the following:
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Guidance on escort vehicle markings.
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Equipment to be carried and person specifications.
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Basic operating guidelines.
Combined benefits of the introduction of the new Code of
Practice are as follows:
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Loads can be moved at optimum times, thus minimising traffic
congestion, making journeys safer, as well as saving time by not having to
co-ordinate police escorts across force boundaries.
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More Police resources available, allowing them to target other
areas where enforcement and front line public service is required.
Mr. David Jamieson, Transport Minister commented:
"I am delighted that the Highways Agency has published this
Code of Practice. It will offer the potential for genuine efficiency savings for
the haulage industry, as well as allowing the police to concentrate more on
their core activities."
The Code of Practice can be accessed from the Highways Agency
website by clicking the following:
Highways Agency Website
Article by Alexandra Johnston
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