The European Commission has recently implemented new regulations that seek to ensure the safety and security of HGV parks in the entire territory of the European Union. In order to do so, new and stricter standards have been implemented. These standards allow to reduce crime rates, better the living conditions and safety of drivers.
According to the new standards, the safety of the parking areas is evaluated depending on the security level of the territory‘s perimeter, the exit and entry spots as well as whether there is staff (e.g.: security guards) present in the area at all times. The safety level is evaluated based on these factors and is then divided into 4 categories: bronze, silver, gold and platinum. Bronze, for example, is given to the parks that have surveillance cameras installed, while platinum is dedicated to those that have on-site security staff or have special technology, such as scanning the license plates of the trucks at entry and exit spots, installed. Different security categories allow hauliers to choose the needed rest area for their drivers depending on what load they are carrying.
Despite the different security levels, the changes also include stricter standards when it comes to ensuring the comfort and quality of rest for the drivers. From now on all HGV parks must include showers, toilets as well as shops or cafes that would allow drivers to purchase food and beverages. Simultaneously, drivers must also be granted access to internet connection.