Penrith-based Dent Logistics received a strong warning for not reporting a fatal incident.
- Dent Logistics operates a significant fleet, with 90 HGVs and 100 trailers in operation.
- Failure to notify the commissioner about a fatal accident in 2021 led to serious scrutiny.
- Dent also faced issues with drivers lacking valid CPC qualifications for extended periods.
- The company’s compliance history was noted, but recent lapses prompted formal action.
Dent Logistics, a prominent haulier based in Penrith, has been issued a significant warning by a deputy traffic commissioner. This action came as a result of the company’s failure to report a serious road traffic collision that resulted in a fatality. The oversight by the company included not informing the appropriate authorities about the incident that occurred in August 2021, as well as neglecting to report subsequent legal actions related to the accident.
Operating a fleet of 90 heavy goods vehicles and 100 trailers, Dent Logistics’ lack of communication with the traffic commissioner’s office drew attention to a series of compliance failures. Among these was a situation where one of its drivers continued to operate without a valid Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) qualification for a period of two years. This lapse was discovered at a public inquiry in Golborne, where it was revealed the driver in question was employed under these conditions.
Deputy Traffic Commissioner Gerallt Evans, who chaired the inquiry, highlighted the importance of such notifications. Failure to act promptly and keep the commissioner’s office informed was a key issue. Evans pointed out that Fiona Cannon, the transport manager, admitted ignorance regarding the necessity of reporting such matters. Another layer of complexity was added when Hollie Dent, a former transport manager, acknowledged her failure to verify the driver’s expired CPC at the time of employment in 2021. The commissioner indicated that while mitigation was considered, such as the lack of immediate clarity in system checks, the company was expected to have realized the issue sooner.
The inquiry revealed that even after being informed about the CPC issue in early 2022, Fiona Cannon allowed the driver to continue working until he completed the necessary training three months later. The commissioner criticised this decision, stressing that driver CPC compliance is a fundamental road safety requirement. These failings were deemed unacceptable, regardless of external pressures such as driver shortages or personal sympathy.
While Dent Logistics maintained a solid compliance record historically, the events underlined complacency that could not be ignored. Evans declined to revoke the company’s operating licence, citing the isolated and aged nature of the infractions; however, he delivered a severe formal warning. His decision acknowledged the corrective measures put in place post-incident and the absence of intentional misconduct.
In conclusion, Dent Logistics received a strong warning, underscoring the need for robust compliance measures and timely communication with regulatory bodies.
Dent Logistics must enhance its compliance strategies following serious regulatory warnings.
