TEXT TOZER AND FIGHT CRIME
Truckersworld's Barrie Tozer wants industry help in setting up a text alert service.
Barrie Tozer, founder of Truckersworld, is looking for support from transport companies and insurance groups to set up a text alert service to help the police fight theft on the road.
'Truckers can be the eyes on the road and if companies notify me quickly by email or text about incidents then I can pass on the details to hundreds of drivers.
'By doing this, the chance of police apprehending criminals has got to increase. Police, even Truckpol, are slow at passing on information, which gives the criminals days to get stuff unloaded and moved. But if truckers are aware, then the criminals might be sighted in the process of moving the goods, say from truck to van.'
Tozer would like to know if companies would be interested in such a scheme and whether insurers would consider sponsoring it. Visit www.truckersworld.co.uk
On the issue of MSA's, Tozer is pleased with a recent meeting with Welcome Break, which brought about commitments to improve facilities and to look into the problems of security.
Welcome Break commitments for the future include refurbished showers with room to move and state-of-the-art sinks, a review of its restaurant menus and possibly the initroduction of a trucker's meal between certain hours.
Welcome Break also pledged to look into future security, with better floodlighting and possibly CCTV cameras.
Rod McKie, chief executive of Welcome Break, wrote to Tozer, saying 'As a company we are committed this year, if possible, in certain locations, to extend the truck parking areas, subject to legislation and planning approval and, indeed, viability.
'Secondly, we are committed to ensuring that all Welcome Break sites have upgraded shower and washing facilities for truck drivers - a programme that will start at the beginning of November.
'Thirdly, we take on board your comments reference security and our team are predisposed to look at increased physical security and CCTV security as well as looking at upgrading site lighting, etc.
'Lastly, we appreciate the feedback reference our food offering and we feel that offering wholesome food at the opportune time for truck drivers is a big opportunity for us. As such, new menus will be launched over the ensuing months which we believe will satisfy your colleagues.'
As T&D went to press, a meeting had been scheduled with operator Moto for October.