Crossrail trains lorry drivers in road safety

Date: 5/7/2011

Cyclists in London may notice an improvement in their own road safety following a scheme initiated as part of the ongoing Crossrail project.

Some 1,000 lorry operators who will be involved in the construction of the new rail line - which will cut through the centre of the capital from Maidenhead to Abbey Wood - have now completed a training course aimed at ensuring they drive carefully when close to those on two wheels or who are otherwise vulnerable.

In addition, Crossrail is working alongside contractors to help fit all its heavy goods vehicles with Fresnel lenses and scanning equipment that can recognise if a vehicle is present at the side of the larger motor in order to overcome blind spots.

Overall, 4,000 professional drivers will take the Havering College course over the next few years.

Cynthia Barlow, Chair of RoadPeace, says: "We welcome the work of the Crossrail project in ensuring that drivers and their companies are provided with the training and information they need to operate with vulnerable road users in mind and establish a comprehensive safety culture throughout the project."

In June, the Freight Transport Association unveiled a new code of conduct for commercial vehicle operators aimed at improving cyclists' safety.

Posted by Sarah Bailey