LBP-based logistics and lifting specialists Sussex Transport recently hosted an innovative LGV Appreciation Day at their headquarters on the park, bringing together teams from West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service and the South East Coast Ambulance Service for a unique hands-on training event.

The purpose of the day was to help local emergency crews develop a deeper understanding of Large Goods Vehicles (LGVs), their structure, risks, and the challenges they can present during real-life emergencies.

With Sussex Transport providing full access to its working fleet and training facilities, crews had the opportunity to rotate through a series of realistic, scenario-based exercises.

The teams used three of Sussex Transport’s operational vehicles – an articulated truck, a HIAB crane vehicle, and a 26-tonne curtainsider fitted with a Moffett forklift – to simulate a range of emergency incidents. Scenarios included highlighting danger areas around different LGVs, gaining access to a driver in medical distress, managing a trapped casualty, and using lifting equipment and airbags to stabilise or raise a vehicle safely. Each scenario encouraged teamwork, communication, and problem-solving under realistic conditions.

“It was fantastic to see our vehicles and site being used in such a positive and meaningful way,” said Andy Packham, Lifting & Training Manager at Sussex Transport. “We work with heavy and specialist equipment every day, so it’s great to share that knowledge and experience to help those who respond to real-world incidents involving vehicles like ours.”

Managing Director, and Business Park Chairman Damian Pulford added that initiatives like this reflect Sussex Transport’s wider Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) goals: “As a long-established local employer, we see value in sharing our knowledge and facilities whenever we can. This event perfectly illustrates how business and public services can work together for the good of the region.”

The day was a huge success and is part of Sussex Transport’s ongoing commitment to supporting the local community through its CSR programme. Over time, the company has also supported other emergency services organisations, including the Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS).

Alongside its transport and lifting operations, Sussex Transport operates a dedicated Training Division, offering:

1.     Vehicle Marshalling Training

2.     Lifting Training (Appointed Person, Lorry Loader, Crane Lift Supervisor, Slinger Signaller, Overhead Gantry Crane, Marine Knuckle Boom Crane, Mobile Crane)

3.     Materials Handling Training (Forklift / Counterbalance, Telescopic Handler)

4.     Working at Height Training (Working at Height, Harness and Fall Arrest, MEWP Boom and Scissor, Safe Use of Ladders)

5.     Industrial Training Courses (Abrasive Wheels, Emergency First Aid at Work, Fire Marshall / Warden, Manual Handling)

Located right here on Lancing Business Park, Sussex Transport is proud to play an active role in both the business and wider local community – not only through its logistics operations but by supporting initiatives and training that make a real difference beyond the day-to-day transport industry.

Businesses on the park are invited to contact Sussex Transport if they ever have a safety concern or a construction-related training enquiry, or would like to discuss how the Training Division can support their teams. 

Simply visit https://www.sussextransport.com/training/ for further information.