One of the biggest challenges for any transport consultant is ensuring that the vast amount of compliance, safety, and operational information reaches drivers in a consistent, timely, and effective manner. For Protea Training, that challenge has been significantly eased thanks to the adoption of The Driver Handbook app and TDHConnect content management system.

As part of its consultancy toolkit, Protea Training now deploys The Driver Handbook across its growing client base. This not only streamlines communication and reduces administrative burden but also ensures that its customers can maintain compliance with O Licence undertakings, FORS standards, and their own internal policies.

From the outset, Paul Smithson, Director at Protea Training, recognised the potential of The Driver Handbook as a value-added solution. “Using The Driver Handbook is a powerful proposition for my customers,” Paul explains. “I can distribute quality, trusted information instantly and consistently – no matter where I am. It saves time, improves audit readiness, and ensures that all drivers receive the same messages.”

Now used with over 35 operators, Protea Training leverages the platform to help its customers:

• Operate within the 11 undertakings of the O Licence
• Meet FORS communication requirements
• Deliver business-specific instructions and monitor engagement

The result is a smarter, centralised way of working. Protea Training can now manage client communications remotely, reducing the need for travel, physical paperwork, and face-to-face briefings. The system’s built-in analytics also allow customers to quickly identify which drivers have read and understood content – and which may need additional support or training.

At the core of the system is a mobile app for drivers, powered by TDHConnect. The platform allows consultants and fleet managers to share essential information directly to drivers’ devices, including:
Industry-compliant handbook content (HGV, van, car, PCV)

• Toolbox talks
• Policy libraries and template declarations
• Risk assessments and campaign materials

Content can be customised to meet operator-specific needs, and all actions are timestamped and trackable, supporting audit trails and demonstrating due diligence. For Protea Training’s customers, this means drivers no longer need to be gathered together to sign paperwork or attend briefings. Instead, they can access everything they need – safely, legally, and efficiently – at the point of need.

“My clients can monitor engagement, improve training and compliance, and significantly reduce operational disruption,” Paul adds. “It also means I can offer an enhanced, tech-enabled consultancy service.”

Glen Davies, Managing Director of The Driver Handbook, sees the collaboration as a model for the future: “Paul was the first to really identify how The Driver Handbook could support consultancy businesses as well as fleet operators. This partnership approach aligns perfectly with our values. We know the transport sector inside out, and we believe that strong, collaborative relationships are the key to real, lasting success.”

The Driver Handbook is more than a handbook – it’s a digital communication platform for the modern transport operation.