Abnormal Loads Group take industry concerns to National Police Chief's Council

Abnormal Loads Group take industry concerns to National Police Chief's Council

07 Nov 2024 Posted By Richard Smith

The Abnormal Loads Group (ALG) took industry concerns over inconsistent enforcement to police leaders 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 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 ALG is supported by a cross section of leading industry trade associations including Road Haulage Association (RHA), Heavy Transport Association, NCC, and British Holiday & Home Parks Association.