HGV Driving Jobs
What does a HGV Driving Job Entail
HGV Driving is a job that will open doors to many opportunities. For those interested in getting behind the wheel, their earning capacity can range from approximately 450 British pounds to as much as 600 British pounds, weekly, a range that is well above the national minimum wage. Most HGV Driving companies include full benefit packages for their workers including sick pay and pension schemes, additionally, there are flexible working hours allowing employees the option to work as much or as little as they want while in keeping with the 48 hour maximum driving time restriction.
With the majority of HGV drivers being over the age of 40, it is a clear indication that HGV driving can be demanding. This fact, is perhaps why there is currently a shortage of persons willing to work long hours, and some drivers complain that life on the road can, at times, be very lonely. Drivers who have made the decision to opt out of the HGV driving career have said that the extra controls implemented by companies have become too restrictive.
A common misconception about the HGV driving industry is that only men work in the profession. However, women also work in the HGV industry, although there are few who do. There are many training schools teaming up with companies that require HGV drivers, so this guarantees the opportunity for finding employment.
For persons who genuinely enjoy driving, the HGV industry is ideal. There are additional opportunities to sharpen your driving skills, and further career advantages after you have clocked in a certain amount of miles, like becoming a HGV driving instructor. While a career in the haulage industry may not be luxurious at first glance, with generous wage packages and flexible working hours it might be worth a second look.
How to Acquire an HGV Driving Job
Depending on the candidate’s driving experience, and the type of HGV licence they wish to obtain, HGV certification training may last between one to four days. Some aspects covered in the training sessions are: driving skills, loading and securing goods and basic mechanics. The HGV instructors will educate the HGV candidates using a “Show me” approach during the training, making it more interactive. The common show me questions used by instructors are very specific, and will usually require the candidates to point out to the instructor how to check the engine oil level, pointing out the precise location of fire extinguishers, the first aid-kit, providing adequate information as well as indicating whether the truck is safe to drive and many more clear-cut questions relevant to HGV driving.
Candidates will be required to sit a final examination on the last day of training. The examination format is either pass or fail, as no grades are given. The examination covers areas such as how to accurately evaluate component wear and the appropriate corrective measures when the track breaks down. Before candidates can be certified as HGV drivers, they have to have a clear understanding about the safety measures–this is a very vital aspect, and much emphasis is placed on it during the training to minimise if not eliminate the chances of causing accidents while on duty as well as an attempt to save lives. On successful completion of the HGV training, and certification, the HGV driver is set to join the HGV industry.
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