New standard for motorcycle couriers

30 October 2017

Transport for London (TfL) and the Mayor of London have launched a range of new measures to raise standards within the motorcycle delivery industry, while also improving the confidence and skills of the Capital's motorcyclists.

The move is part of TfL and the Mayor's Vision Zero approach to eliminating death and serious injury from collisions on the Capital's roads by 2041. Figures published by TfL last month show that motorcycle riders and their pillions accounted for 27 per cent of serious injuries and 28 per cent of all road fatalities in the Capital during 2016, despite making up just two per cent of road traffic.

TfL is working closely with the motorcycle delivery and courier industry in a pioneering move to explore the expansion of the existing Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) to include those companies which use motorcycles in London. The voluntary standard has been successfully used in the haulage industry since 2011 to promote safety, efficiency and environmental best practice, awarding companies Bronze, Silver or Gold accreditations depending on the standard achieved.

TfL is the first organisation in the country to work with the industry to create a recognised standard for motorcycle delivery companies. This standard will cover areas such as management, operations, vehicles and drivers, and companies will be audited on factors including vehicle maintenance, rider training and good operations.