The standard     The units

home find standard resources research

		Unit 1		Operate the vehicle
					Signs of competence in this unit
						The following information and examples will help people using the competency standard form a picture of desired performance.
						The driver is skilful Drivers who perform to the standard in this unit can operate the vehicle's instruments and controls fluently, with little or no conscious attention. Driving doesn't appear difficult to them; you can have a conversation with them while they drive and their performance barely drops off. Their posture, braking, steering, use of the transmission and control of the accelerator is always very precise; they are never sloppy. They believe in always doing the 'basics' properly to ensure that they will perform well under pressure. These drivers have a basic understanding of mechanics. When they 'lift the bonnet' they can recognise the main engine parts. They can explain the essential differences between petrol and diesel engines and the implications for driving each type of vehicle. They can tell you why correct tyre pressures are important and if you checked the vehicle they were driving it would have the correct pressures (including the spare). The driver can transfer learning Drivers who are performing to the standard can easily transfer what they know about driving from one vehicle to another. In new vehicles, they adapt to technological innovations because they understand basic mechanics and principles of vehicle control. They can get in any small- to medium-sized vehicle and quickly adapt to it. If they haven't driven that type of vehicle before they make time and do what's necessary to get used to it. They understand that their performance will be reduced until they are familiar with the vehicle. Consequently, if they get an emergency case before they have had time to get used to the vehicle, they keep their speed down. The driver can deal with problems Drivers who are performing to the standard can quickly pick up faults with vehicles. What doesn't emerge on static inspections, these drivers notice the first time they drive the vehicle. It is important to them that vehicles are kept in top condition and they make sure faults get reported. Consequently, if they've caused any damage while using the vehicle, they feel comfortable about reporting it and they don't mind admitting their mistakes. The driver does it in the real world Drivers who are performing to the standard believe it's important to keep the Service's vehicles clean and operational. They normally check their vehicle thoroughly at the start of a shift or, if there is not time then, they do it at the first opportunity. They clean, restock and fuel their vehicle ready for others to use and expect to find their vehicle in a similar condition when they start a shift. When they collect a vehicle and it has a fault they do the right thing to get it fixed. When they operate the vehicle, their performance is consistently to the standard regardless of the situation. They need no supervision and little encouragement to drive to the standard.

|       copyright       |      WARNING       |      top of page      |