CPC Driver Health & Conduct 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: The '10-20 minute nap' strategy for combating driver fatigue is most effective when:
- Taken while the vehicle is in motion with a co-driver watching
- Taken before severe fatigue sets in, combined with caffeine (taken just before the nap so it takes effect on waking) (Correct answer)
- Taken after a full 8-hour driving period
- Taken lying flat in the cab throughout the night
Correct answer: Taken before severe fatigue sets in, combined with caffeine (taken just before the nap so it takes effect on waking)
The 'nap + caffeine' strategy works because caffeine takes 20 minutes to absorb; taking it before a 10-20 minute nap means alertness from caffeine coincides with waking, providing enhanced short-term alertness.
Question 2: Which prescribed medication class is most likely to impair professional drivers and requires DVLA and employer notification?
- Antibiotics for minor infections
- Benzodiazepines, opioid analgesics and antihistamines that cause drowsiness or impaired cognition (Correct answer)
- Paracetamol in standard doses
- Vitamin supplements
Correct answer: Benzodiazepines, opioid analgesics and antihistamines that cause drowsiness or impaired cognition
Benzodiazepines (anxiety/sleep drugs), opioids and sedating antihistamines cause drowsiness, impaired judgement and slowed reaction times — all incompatible with professional driving; both DVLA and employer must be informed.
Question 3: Professional drivers are subject to random drug and alcohol testing by employers under:
- The Road Traffic Act 1988 only
- The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and specific transport industry procedures including DVSA-recommended policies (Correct answer)
- The Medicines Act 1968
- The Equality Act 2010
Correct answer: The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and specific transport industry procedures including DVSA-recommended policies
Employers have a duty of care under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to ensure employees are fit for work; the road transport industry has specific recommended drug and alcohol testing policies supported by DVSA guidance.
Question 4: What are the specific cardiovascular fitness standards required to hold a Group 2 (HGV/PCV) driving licence?
- No cardiovascular assessment required for Group 2
- Must not have had a heart attack or unstable angina in the preceding 6 weeks and must meet DVLA Fitness to Drive standards for various cardiac conditions (Correct answer)
- Any cardiovascular condition is disqualifying regardless of treatment
- Only a GP letter confirming fitness is required
Correct answer: Must not have had a heart attack or unstable angina in the preceding 6 weeks and must meet DVLA Fitness to Drive standards for various cardiac conditions
Group 2 drivers must meet strict DVLA cardiovascular standards: recent MI or unstable angina typically requires a period off driving; ongoing conditions are assessed against specific criteria in DVLA's 'At a Glance' guide.
Question 5: What should a professional driver do if they receive a fixed penalty notice for a traffic offence?
- Pay it without telling anyone to avoid complications
- Notify their employer as required by contract and DVSA guidance, as accumulation of offences may affect their operator's licence (Correct answer)
- Only disclose if the employer specifically asks
- Dispute every FPN regardless of whether the offence was committed
Correct answer: Notify their employer as required by contract and DVSA guidance, as accumulation of offences may affect their operator's licence
Most HGV employment contracts require drivers to disclose all traffic convictions and FPNs; accumulation of offences reflects on the operator's compliance record and can affect the operator's licence.
Question 6: Diabetes managed by insulin treatment is subject to specific DVLA licensing conditions for Group 2 drivers. What is the key requirement?
- Insulin-treated diabetes is permanently disqualifying for Group 2 licences
- Drivers must demonstrate awareness of hypoglycaemia, have HbA1c and ophthalmic checks and be reviewed annually by a specialist; short-term licences are issued (Correct answer)
- No special conditions apply if glucose is controlled
- A 12-month break from driving after starting insulin is required
Correct answer: Drivers must demonstrate awareness of hypoglycaemia, have HbA1c and ophthalmic checks and be reviewed annually by a specialist; short-term licences are issued
Since 2011, insulin-treated diabetics may hold Group 2 licences subject to annual specialist review, confirmed hypoglycaemia awareness, regular blood glucose monitoring and absence of severe hypos in the preceding 12 months.
CPC Driver Health & Conduct 2
The '10-20 minute nap' strategy for combating driver fatigue is most effective when: