12/03/2026
Our members have been telling us that isolated/single pinch points have become a point of potential friction between operators and enforcement some police forces, where the subjective assessment of the necessity for police es**rt has sometimes become polarised. The HTA very much welcomes the constructive engagement and collaboration of Essex Police in this respect.
One of the ongoing key work-streams of the HTA is to improve the safety and operational efficiency of Abnormal Load movements through appropriate es**rting practices. Existing legislation provides for a Chief Constable to confer the powers (of a constable) to stop/direct traffic for the explicit purpose of es**rting an abnormal load. The HTA has been working towards this objective with NPCC for some time and are currently in discussions with a number of police forces who see the benefit of introducing such powers to appropriately accredited businesses employing HTA/CSAS qualified es**rters in suitable circumstances. Pinch-points are largely predictable and most require simple traffic direction to overcome; however the use of a empowered es**rt may negate need for police in what is likely to be a very short, straightforward interaction.
Notwithstanding, enforcement authorities and operators may not always agree upon the need for police es**rt; however in the interests of public safety, assessment of the risks should clearly be a matter of objectivity (and ideally consensus) for all parties. As part of project (Safer Abnormal Load Escorting) and in conjunction with road safety consultants, The Transafe Network, the HTA has created ORCA (Online Risk Consideration and Assessment); a simple, free online tool accessible to anyone and completely anonymous (should you wish/no registration required); ORCA represents a simple risk assessment pathway designed to foster consistency and objectivity. Results can be saved/printed as evidence of due-diligence.
Online Risk Consideration and Assessment (ORCA) - https://lnkd.in/eP9hyB_3
The HTA welcomes constructive collaboration with stakeholders for the safe and legal movement of abnormal loads - https://lnkd.in/epJ2gEvV
No infrastructure or major engineering project is possible without our members. The HTA is the only specialist Trade Association for the heavy/abnormal loads industry.
Essex Police has introduced a new process designed to make the movement of abnormal indivisible loads (AILs) safer, simpler and more efficient for haulage companies operating across Essex.
This new approach marks a significant shift in how AILs are supported across the region.
By simplifying the process, enhancing training, and working closely with industry experts, the force aims to ensure that essential transport movements can take place safely, legally and without unnecessary cost to hauliers.
Read more by clicking on the link in comments below.
