The job of a professional driver requires much more than just driving skills. Drivers working in the transport sector must be familiar with safety regulations, traffic rules, economical driving techniques and many other professional skills that ensure smooth and safe operations. Legislation requires professional drivers to attend regular training courses, which ensure their skills remain up to date and guarantee that their work is carried out safely and efficiently.
The aim of compulsory training is to develop drivers’ ability to identify risks, react to unexpected situations and reduce the number of hazardous situations on the roads. These training courses are not merely a formality; they are a key part of improving road safety and drivers’ professional development.
Maintaining a driver’s professional competence
Lorry and coach drivers must complete at least 35 hours of refresher training every five years, comprising five separate training days. The content of these training courses varies, but their purpose is to develop drivers’ professional skills and update their knowledge of legislation, road safety and vehicle technology.
Further training is not only compulsory, but also a sensible way to keep professional skills up to date. Regular training helps drivers avoid unnecessary mistakes on the road and improves their ability to cope with the demands of the job. For drivers of heavy goods vehicles in particular, the hours spent on the road are long, and a proactive and economical driving style has a direct impact on their ability to cope at work and on their efficiency.
What do the compulsory training courses cover?
One of the most important training courses is the course on defensive driving, which is a compulsory subject as specified by Traficom. This training equips drivers to observe traffic more effectively and make anticipatory decisions that reduce the risk of accidents. Situations may arise on the road that cannot be fully anticipated, but an experienced and trained driver’s ability to react in a controlled and safe manner can prevent a dangerous situation from turning into a serious accident.
Another important area of training relates to driving and rest period regulations. A driver’s work schedule can be tight, but legislation sets precise limits on how long a vehicle may be driven before a break is taken. Knowing these rules is not just a matter of complying with official requirements; they are also vital for the driver’s own well-being and ability to cope at work. A tired driver poses a significant risk to themselves and other road users.
Safety training for drivers is also part of the compulsory training programme. These may include, for example, first-aid training, which equips drivers to deal with emergency situations, and occupational safety training, which covers safety regulations relating to loading and unloading. A driver’s job is not limited to simply driving; it also involves controlling the vehicle and its load, as well as working in various environments where safety is always paramount.
Tip: The ‘First Aid Training for Transport Professionals’ online course, designed for professionals in the transport sector, offers practical and comprehensive training that provides confidence and the skills needed to handle critical situations.
Economical and environmentally friendly driving
One topic that has become increasingly important in training courses in recent years is economical driving. Fuel costs account for a large proportion of the transport sector’s expenses, and drivers have a significant influence on how efficiently a vehicle is used. Economical driving not only reduces fuel consumption but also minimises wear and tear on the vehicle, which means lower maintenance costs and a longer service life.
Furthermore, environmental requirements are becoming increasingly stringent, and transport companies are having to take emissions reductions into account as part of their operations. Training for professional drivers often includes information on how to use a vehicle more energy-efficiently and what measures can be taken to reduce emissions without compromising the smooth running of operations.
Why choose Jatkokoulutus.com’s training courses?
Professional qualifications are not permanent; they must be renewed at regular intervals so that employees retain the right to practise their profession. This requires continuous learning and up-to-date knowledge of new legislation and safety regulations. Online training courses offer an easy and effective way to maintain professional qualifications, as they allow for flexible learning alongside work.
Why choose Jatkokoulutus.com?
Here at Jatkokoulutus.com, all our compulsory training courses are designed not just to meet regulatory requirements, but also to be genuinely useful in a driver’s day-to-day work. We offer flexible online training courses that allow you to complete the training at your own pace without it interfering with your work.
Unlike many of our competitors, we offer high-quality, practical training courses that focus on learning and practical skills. For example, our defensive driving course provides real-world tools for navigating traffic, rather than simply repeating the same old theories.
Being a driver is a demanding profession, and the skills required are constantly evolving. Compulsory training is not merely an obligation; it is a means of developing professionally, improving road safety and ensuring that drivers can carry out their work safely and efficiently.
If you’d like to undertake further professional development training easily and flexibly, take a look at our range of courses and secure your place today!