Truck driver alert: essential new part available

Media Release
3 March 2009

Truck driver alert: essential new part available

Calling all truck drivers, trainee truck drivers, future truck drivers and, actually, anyone who is fanatical about trucks; Tranzqual has the book for you.

The Industry Training Organisation is about to release its comprehensive guide to driving trucks on New Zealand roads.

Professional Skills for Driving Trucks is a graphically illustrated, high quality 230 page book full of no-nonsense information on all the skills and knowledge you need to safely and efficiently drive trucks.

Tranzqual CEO Wayne Smith said the book was essentially a truck driver's "bible" and would be an indispensable reference.

It was especially targeted at the trainee or less experienced driver but would also prove highly useful for long-time drivers, he said.

"It includes all the most relevant information and tips and hints on heavy licence driving in New Zealand so all drivers, no matter how experienced, will get something out of it."

The book will be launched at The Expo at the Mystery Creek Events Centre, held from March 5 to 7. The Expo is New Zealand's premier forum for the transport and heavy equipment industries.

Mr Smith said the book's 10 chapters also provided information relevant to at least 20 unit standards registered on the National Qualifications Framework. This meant the book was an excellent companion guide for people working towards a truck driving national qualification or modern apprenticeship.

"As the organisation that sets the standards for truck driving qualifications, this text book reflects Tranzqual's high standards and will become an integral part of driver training."

"Driving trucks is one of the most rewarding careers available. Other jobs can tie you to a desk but truck driving is all about freedom and experiences. We hope this book will help and inspire more people to become professional drivers; to know the road rules, show courtesy on the road, drive efficiently and safely and understand truck components.

"The need for professional drivers will continue to grow and we want to ensure all these drivers make 'responsibility' their guiding principle. The book demonstrates this aim."
Please turn over….
The book, with a RRP of $89.95 (including GST), can be ordered now from www.tranzqual.orgnz or bought from selected retail stores. It will also be available for schools to purchase for their libraries or career guidance officers.

The 10 chapters cover information such as:

1. Heavy vehicle systems and components
2. Vehicle inspections
3. Trailer coupling / uncoupling and reversing skills
4. Loading and unloading including principles of restraint and safety procedures
5. Route planning and selection
6. Safe driving and risk reduction techniques
7. Heavy vehicle dynamics to avoid loss of control and roll over
8. Vehicle emergencies
9. Achieving vehicle operating efficiency including fuel economy
10. Managing driver stress and fatigue

ENDS

About Tranzqual

Tranzqual is the Industry Training Organisation (ITO) responsible for setting the training standards for the road transport, warehousing, freight forwarding, passenger services, ports and stevedoring industries. We ensure people in these industries have the best opportunities to learn, by developing training resources and supporting companies and trainees to achieve their training outcomes. We work with employers to help plan industry training and we actively promote career opportunities within these industries. www.tranzqual.org.nz

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