Training 2 000 drivers and counting

Innovative Staffing Solutions (ISS) has invested in two trucks dedicated to truck-driver training and has used them to train more than 2 000 drivers this year.

“Advanced truck-driver training is conducted by certified trainers and each driver undergoes three to four hours of training. The trainers spend one-on-one time with drivers to test their driving skills and brush up on their knowledge of road regulations,” says ISS MD, Arnoux Maré.

He points out that truck drivers have an enormous responsibility.

He says: “Not only are they responsible for driving heavy, expensive vehicles that can cause extensive damage if they crash, they are also responsible for carrying valuable loads from one destination to the next. So, it is imperative that they are highly competent and display a high degree of reliability and accountability.”

Since starting ISS seven years ago, Maré has grown the outsourcing company’s driver complement from a handful of drivers in 2011 to more than 5 500 drivers in 2018. “We outsource drivers to clients in various industries, which means we need to make sure they are competent, well-trained and happy to be working for us,” he explains.

“We believe we are making a significant contribution to the transport industry by creating thousands of jobs and making sure our drivers are well trained and fully supported.”

This support includes making sure they receive competitive salaries and other benefits.

“Earlier this year, we negotiated an excellent deal for our drivers with one of the major medical-aid players in the country. This was a ground-breaking move, because, historically, drivers have either not had medical aid or have been on below-par medical aid packages,” adds Maré.

ISS also manages drivers’ schedules carefully to reduce driver fatigue. It has advanced fleet-monitoring systems in place to reduce the chance of accidents and ensure drivers and their cargo gets to destinations on time.

Maré says October Transport Month, is an important reminder for South African citizens of the important role transport plays in their lives.

“The sector plays an important role in development and job creation in the country. Notably, transport gross domestic product reached an all-time high of just over R 27,1 million in the first quarter of 2018,” concludes Maré.