Gov Slashes Drivers’ Hours Amid Delivery Crunch
The UK government has just eased the rules on lorry drivers’ hours to keep essential deliveries flowing. From 18 March to 16 April 2020, drivers delivering food, household items, and over-the-counter medicines get a temporary break from strict EU driving limits.
Who’s Covered?
- Drivers delivering from distribution centres to stores or fulfilment centres
- Trips from manufacturers or suppliers to distribution centres (including backhauls)
- Direct runs from manufacturers or suppliers to stores or fulfilment centres
- Transfers between distribution centres and transport hubs
- Transport hub deliveries to stores
Important: This relaxation does NOT apply to drivers delivering directly to customers.
What Rules Are Relaxed?
- Daily driving limit increased from 9 to 11 hours
- Daily rest reduced from 11 to 9 hours
- Weekly and fortnightly driving limits upped to 60 and 96 hours respectively
- Weekly rest periods can be postponed within a fortnight, but minimum rests still apply
- Daily breaks extended from 4.5 to 5.5 hours before a 45-minute break is needed
Safety First: Drivers can’t mix the longest daily driving with postponed weekly rests. The rules are relaxed but not thrown out – safety remains top priority. Employers must ensure drivers aren’t pushed to dangerous tiredness.
How It Works
Drivers must clearly note why they exceed normal limits on their tachograph charts. This is standard in emergency situations and crucial for enforcement checks.
The government stresses this is a temporary fix for exceptional COVID-19 disruption. Businesses are still expected to manage supply chain risks responsibly.
Keep an eye on updates – the Department for Transport can pull or extend these relaxed rules depending on how things evolve.
