Both the Road Haulage Association and Freight Transport Association received a confirmation letter from UK’s DfT confirming that the work of the logistics sector is essential and should continue to the greatest extent possible through the Covid-19 crisis.
Commenting, RHA chief executive Richard Burnett said: “The last few days have seen much uncertainty as regards the definition of ‘essential workers’ and this confirmation from DfT’s Co-Director for Road Safety, Standards and Services, Ben Rimmington, formalises the work of those that are keeping the economy moving. This applies to all supplies chains – not only those for food and medical supplies.
“We would urge employers to provide drivers with a copy of the letter that can be shown if needed.”
All travel related to the operation of logistics or necessary travel by logistics workers to places of work such as distribution centres is considered ‘essential travel’ in the context of current restrictions.
Concluding, Richard Burnett said: “We have worked closely with our colleagues at the FTA to achieve this and I am delighted that the hard work has paid off.
We need still need greater recognition from the Prime Minister as regards the great work this industry is doing by keeping the nation fed. The importance of integrated transport which businesses need to keep running, should also be acknowledged.”
Dear Richard & David,
30 March 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Essential Work of the Logistics Sector
I am writing to confirm that the Department for Transport considers it essential that the work of the logistics sector should continue to the greatest extent possible through the Covid-19 crisis.
Haulage drivers, managers, warehouse staff and all other logistics professionals need to continue to go about their business to keep supply chains moving, and government policy is clear that this applies to all supplies chains and not only those for food and medical supplies. All travel related to the operation of logistics businesses (including for instance necessary washing of vehicles or supply of spare parts) or necessary travel by logistics workers to places of work such as distribution centres is therefore to be considered ‘essential travel’ in the context of current restrictions. At all times workers should however follow Public Health England guidelines on social distancing.
We have communicated this to the National Police Chiefs Council to ensure it is shared with all police forces in the context of their important work to enforce the new restrictions on movement. I would be very happy for you to share this letter with your members, and for them to use it as evidence of the government position on this point in the event of any misunderstandings.
Thank you for everything you and your members are doing to keep supply chains moving in these difficult times.
Yours sincerely,
Ben Rimmington
Co-Director, Road Safety, Standards and Services
Great Minster House
33 Horseferry Road
London
SW1P 4DR
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