Copart are Switched on to Safety

As the number of electric and hybrid vehicles on the roads continues to increase, leading online vehicle remarketing company Copart are proving they are “switched on” by investing in accredited training for colleagues across all 15 UK locations.

After successfully delivering training courses for drivers and subhaul network partners on correctly handling electric and hybrid vehicles in 2018, Copart are now focusing on ensuring that all their facilities are equipped with the necessary skills and expertise to work safely and competently with these vehicle types.

The company has invested in a training programme which will accredit participating colleagues with an IMI Level 2 qualification in Electric/Hybrid Vehicle Routine Maintenance, enabling them to intervene, assess and make safe (if required) any electric or hybrid vehicles that come into Copart’s facilities.

The training, which will take place across all Copart facilities and starts in Rochford this month, will introduce learners to all variations of electric and hybrid vehicle technology and cover the safety requirements of working on these vehicles while carrying out routine inspections.

Russell England, Engineering Services Manager, said: “We currently have plans in place for 22 Vehicle Damage Evaluators to undertake the first phase of training, which will enable them to identify vehicle system components, understand the hazards associated with electric and hybrid vehicles and give them vital knowledge on how to reduce safety risks to themselves and others while working on these types of vehicles.”

Going forward, Copart aim to provide all Vehicle Engineers, Vehicle Damage Evaluators and Yard Managers with this training, and plan that by the end of the year they will have over 60 Electric and Hybrid vehicle experts across their 15 UK facilities.

Simon Sheldon-Wilson, Operations Director, said: “We are delighted to be working closely with independent training company PAAS Ltd to deliver this accredited training programme across our facilities and make a further investment in the development of our people. This is yet another demonstration of how Copart are leading the way in the industry to provide comprehensive capability and expertise in the handling of vehicles, strengthening confidence in our ability and expanding our suite of services to our valued customers.”