Driver CPC Module 4 is the practical test of the Initial Driver CPC qualification. Passing the Module 4 examination confirms you have the required knowledge and skills to carry out the duties of a professional LGV or PCV driver.
We have in, in other blog posts, looked at the possible questions and answers students may expect to be asked by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) examiner when taking the Module 4 test.
Most of the 5 or 6 questions (you will be asked) relate to legal obligations, whilst others are designed to ensure you have a thorough understanding of Health & Safety issues surrounding driving commercial vehicles.
For example a professional driver’s legal obligation would include pre-use checks that must be carried out on the vehicle before it is taken onto the public highway.
Another may be how to visually check the vehicle was not overloaded or (indeed) incorrectly loaded. Not carrying out correct pre-shift checks and or taking a vehicle on the public highway which may be incorrectly loaded or overloaded is an offence. As a result the driver and operator can be prosecuted.
One question that has not been covered in previous blog posts relates to vehicle safety and security. It is essential that a professional LGV or PCV driver knows (and can demonstrate) how to enter and exit a vehicle safety and what precautions they should undertake before moving off.
Did you know that most accidents associated with large good vehicles are drivers falling from vehicles? To help address and minimise the risk drivers must know (and be able to show) how to get in and out a vehicle correctly and what checks should be carried out before moving off from a stationary position.
A typical question (relating to vehicle safety and security) may be.
Please show me how you would enter and exit this vehicle safely and what precautions would you take before setting off.
A typical answer to this question would be (and remember you have to demonstrate your answers.)
I would enter the vehicle using 3 points of contact. Two points of contact (with hands) and one point of contact (with feet.) Hold (with hands) 2 fixed points, i.e. any suitable fixed point (hand rails if available, not steering wheel though as this moves.)
Put at least one foot (at all times) on the steps. Mount the vehicle facing the vehicle. Take your time getting into the vehicle as too much momentum can cause you to trip and have an accident.
Once you have entered the vehicle and are sitting in the cockpit (driver’s seat) you need to carry out the following 4 checks.
Ensure the mirrors are clean, clear and in the correct position.
Make sure the handbrake is applied.
Check the gears and make sure neutral is selected.
Adjust the driver’s seat and ensure the positioning is correct.
Once you have carried out the above operations you must then exit the vehicle safely. Before you exit you must check your mirrors and blind spots. This is to ensure your exit is clear and minimize any risks.
If, once having done your mirrors and blind spot checks, it is clear to exit then the three points of contact rule must be adhered to. It’s adopting the same system as when you entered the vehicle. Use the hand rails and steps (if fitted.) The only real difference is you are now dismounting.
Remember to keep facing the cab whilst exiting the vehicle. Once you have got out of the truck make sure you close the drivers’ door!
This post should now enable you to pass the vehicle safety and security element of the Driver CPC module 4 examination.
For more information on Initial Driver CPC module 4 examination please visit our Module 4 questions and answers main page.
We hope this information will prove to be of use. Good luck on your test!
