COVID-19 - Code of Practice

COVID-19 - Code of Practice

Here at Thumbs Up Driver Training we are taking every precaution possible to mitigate the risk of exposure to COVID-19 in the training environment, having successfully completed a course in Infection Prevention and Control (Including COVID-19).

At this moment in time the population does not have proven immunity to COVID-19. Although there is light on the horizon with the roll out of vaccines, there is still a potential for the virus to spread. Both instructors and students have a joint responsibility to look after the health and wellbeing of each other, their friends, families, and those we may encounter.

We aim to provide a safe and clean training environment and to give pupils and parents the reassurance that every precaution has being taken to mitigate the risk of infection.

Given the close and enclosed proximity of in-vehicle training, driving instructors and their pupils are particularly at risk.

Following advice from both DVSA and NASP, as face masks are worn by Examiners and mandatory for pupils on test, the same measures will be taken during the training process too.

This must be our prime consideration to protect all concerned.

INSTRUCTOR RESPONSIBILITY:

A. The driving lesson will not be conducted if the instructor is displaying any symptoms of the virus within the last 7 days, or if they have been in contact with anyone who has shown symptoms within the last 14 days.

B. Your instructor will wipe down all contact points at the end of each lesson, i.e. key, steering wheel, gear lever, seat, seat belt, indicators, rear view mirror, door handles, both interior and exterior, as well as any other contact points that may have been touched on the journey to you.

C. Your instructor will dispose of all antibacterial wipes in the safest way possible.

D. Your instructor will wear a mask

E. Your instructor will sanitise their hands regularly

F. Your instructor will contact you the day before your lesson to ascertain as to whether you or anyone you have been in contact with have shown any symptoms.

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY:

A. You will be expected to inform your instructor as soon as you can, before your next lesson, if you are displaying any symptoms of the virus within the last 7 days, or if they have been in contact with anyone who has shown symptoms within the last 14 days.

B. All students will be asked to supply and wear their own mask or appropriate face covering for the lesson. If you are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons, please let your instructor know.

C. We kindly ask that you wash your hands with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds immediately before your lesson. Hand sanitiser will also be provided for use during the lesson.

D. At this time, we request that all payments are made in advance by BACS transfer due to the risk of cash passing hands and possible virus spread.

We can only request that you follow these procedures. If you do not comply your instructor may choose not to continue the lesson.

LESSON CANCELATION FEE:

A. 48 hours’ notice is still required, or the cancelation fee will apply. However, it is important that you cancel your lesson if you feel you may have COVID-19 or had contact with anyone that has shown symptoms in the last 14 days. In these circumstances, no fee will be applied for late cancelation. In this situation, your next lesson will not take place for at least two weeks to ensure a safe period has elapsed to holt any possible spread of the virus.

BEFORE ENTERING THE CAR:

A. Before your instructor arrives, they will contact you to discuss if you or any one you have been in contact with has shown any symptoms.

B. When your instructor arrives, they may speak with you outside the vehicle (weather permitting) to discuss lesson aims and goals. If weather does not permit the conversation will take place via a phone call beforehand.

DURING YOUR LESSON:

A. Windows will be slightly open to improve ventilation. Wind deflectors will have been fitted to the training vehicle to allow windows to be open slightly if raining or windy. Appropriate clothing is recommended given that the temperature in the interior of the vehicle will be affected due to open windows.

B. Your instructor, wherever possible will face forward during the lesson.

C. Where possible, any lengthy discussions will be conducted outside of the vehicle (weather permitting).

D. If the instructor undertakes a demonstration drive, all controls will be re-sanitised.

E. In the event your instructor must take control of the steering wheel, you will be asked to park the vehicle safely at a suitable time to allow the instructor to wipe down the steering wheel.

Please raise any concerns you may have with your instructor that could prevent you taking your lessons at this time. For example, you may not feel ready to re-start your lessons, or it may be that you, or someone you live with are identified as extremely clinically vulnerable to COVID-19 and are shielding. We are happy to delay or suspend any future lessons to support you with your decision. Any balance in your account will be returned to you if you do wish not to continue.