Digital Tachographs: When and how to use POA

Welcome to today's YouTube video, where we'll be tackling the topic that has caused confusion and controversy in the industry for nearly two decades: drivers' hours and the use of POA, or Periods of Availability. In this video, we'll shed some light on this important aspect of driver regulations and clarify when to use POA.

When the Road Transport (Working Time) Regulations 2005 was introduced, it was hoped that the confusion surrounding drivers' hours and POA would be resolved. But even after all these years, the confusion remains.

POA is one of the modes selected on the tachograph, represented by a square symbol with a line through it. Used by drivers in scope of the EU Drivers’ Hours Regulations 561/2006, it’s similar to a break, but it does not count towards the working time. It does not qualify as a break under the EU Drivers’ Hours rules, so it will not count towards the required 45-minute break after 4 and a half hours of driving.

In this video, we'll explain why POA exists and what exactly are periods of availability. We'll also discuss when to use POA and provide some examples for better understanding.

Remember, it's important for drivers to accurately record their activity using the appropriate mode on the tachograph. So, let's clear up the confusion and gain a better understanding of drivers' hours and the use of POA.

If EU Drivers’ Hours and the Working Time Regulations confuse you, or you simply want to refresh your knowledge, head over to our website to check out our Drivers’ Hours and Working Time Course and our selection of other courses covering a wide range of topics.

Thank you for watching today's video. Make sure to like and subscribe to our channel for more informative content. The link to our website is in the comments section below. Stay tuned for more helpful videos in the future!
00:00 Introduction
00:17 What is POA
01:23 Why is POA there?
01:41 What are periods of availability?
02:11 Which mode can I use?
02:43 POA Waiting time
03:08 Examples
04:32 More info