What makes a period valid POA?
The worker must not be required to remain at the workstation, must remain available to answer calls to start or resume work, and should know the period and foreseeable duration in advance.
Is POA the same as a break?
No. POA and break/rest are different tachograph activities. POA may stop working time accumulating, but it should not be labelled as a break merely to satisfy another requirement.
Common POA situations
Waiting whose duration is known in advance may qualify. Uncertain delay while the driver must actively supervise work or remain at the workstation may be working time instead. Facts matter more than the label.
Common questions
Does POA count towards the 48-hour average?
Valid POA is normally excluded from sector-specific working time.
Does POA count towards the 90-hour driving limit?
No. The 90-hour limit counts driving time.
Can an employer automatically mark all waiting as POA?
No. The circumstances must satisfy the conditions for a period of availability.
Checked against the DVSA’s Drivers’ hours and tachographs: goods vehicles. Rules, agreements, exemptions and individual circumstances can change which requirements apply.
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