The British Grooms Association is concerned about how grooms are affected with the new offensive from the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA). (As reported in Horse and Hound - 9th July).

We have recently been contacted by some members who are confused as to whether they need an Operator’s License to carry out their job. So on behalf of our members we contacted VOSA and they provided us with the answers:

Does a groom who is in full time, part time or contract (i.e. they are self employed/freelance) work need an Operator’s License when they are driving a lorry for an employer?
It is the user (or operator) of the vehicle -  i.e. who pays/has day to day control of the drivers -  who needs the operator's licence.  Therefore, where the groom drives a HGV that is being operated by their employer during the course of his/her work it is the employer that will require the operator's licence, not the groom.

Does the employer have to add named drivers to their Operators License and is there any cost involved here?
No.  

If the groom has their own lorry and drives other peoples horses for financial gain, then they will need a license?  
Yes.  They will need a standard (national or international) operator's licence, as they will be carrying other peoples goods for hire or reward, in connection with their trade or business. Please note: for a standard national or international licence it will be necessary to have a suitably qualified Transport Manager, with the relevant Certificate of Professional Competence.   For further information about this, the best course of action  - in the first instance - would be to contact the OCR Examinations Board, Westwood Way,  Coventry CV4  5HS (Tel  02476 470033).
 
Please can you also give me the exact definition of who needs an Operator’s License and why?
Most goods vehicles with a gross plated weight of over 3.5 tonnes or, if there is no plated weight, an unladen weight of over 1525 kg require a goods vehicle operator’s licence, where they are used to carry goods or burden of any description in connection with a trade or business, or for hire or reward. The requirement also applies to vehicles used for infrequent periods - such as one day.


We hope that this is of help and clears up any confusion for grooms and employers.

Horse and Hound are running a very important campaign against transport regulations which will affect all grooms work and the welfare of the horses. They need YOUR SUPPORT. Please take the time to sign the petition.  CLICK HERE

Published: 16 Jul 2009