Arrangements for driver welfare and hours of work during the coronavirus outbreak
Driver access to welfare facilities
All drivers must have access to welfare facilities in the premises they visit as part of their work.
We are hearing reports that some 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.
Temporary and limited relaxation of drivers’ hours rules
The Department for Transport (DfT) have 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.