
Heavy Vehicle Defensive Driving
Defensive driving for heavy and articulated vehicles, covering load security, braking distance, blind spots, rollover dynamics and manoeuvring.
Learning outcomes
- Understand the specific hazards and handling of heavy vehicles.
- Conduct thorough pre-trip inspections for trucks and trailers.
- Apply safe braking and cornering techniques for heavy loads.
- Manage the risks of vehicle size, weight, and blind spots.
- Understand the requirements for load securing and weight distribution.
- Navigate safely through restricted areas and under low bridges.
- Manage driver fatigue and comply with hours-of- service regulations.
- Use engine braking and retarders effectively.
- Follow safe procedures for coupling and uncoupling trailers.
- Demonstrate competence in heavy vehicle driving through practical tests.
Who should attend
Light and heavy vehicle drivers, journey managers and fleet supervisors
On completion
Global SPS certificate of training issued to each successful participant, with records retained for client and regulatory audit.
Where we deliver this course
We deliver the Heavy Vehicle Defensive Driving course at our training centre in Abidjan or directly on your site anywhere in Côte d'Ivoire and West Africa, in English or French, for groups of 4 to 10 participants. Courses follow international standards and are scheduled around your operation.
Related courses

Defensive Driving
Defensive driving theory and in-vehicle assessment covering hazard perception, space management, speed and journey risk.

City Defensive Driving
Urban defensive driving focused on congested traffic, vulnerable road users, junction discipline and city- specific hazards.

Off-Road Defensive Driving
Off-road and desert driving including terrain assessment, vehicle recovery, convoy discipline, tyre management and self-recovery technique.

Journey Management
Journey management planning: route risk assessment, journey authorisation, driver hours, communications and monitoring.

Fleet Management
Fleet management covering vehicle selection, maintenance regimes, driver competence assurance, IVMS data and fleet KPI reporting.
Train your team with Global SPS
Tell us the number of participants, your preferred dates and location, and we will send you a tailored proposal.
