### Road Safety and the Accreditation of Parking Areas: A Necessary Reflection

Road safety is a crucial issue in contemporary society, and the management of road incidents represents one of the most challenging tasks to tackle. According to recent reports, over 90% of accidents are attributable to human error, highlighting the need for a profound reflection on the dynamics governing safety on the roads. Among the various categories of drivers, truck drivers find themselves in a particularly vulnerable situation. Fatigue, caused by long hours of driving, becomes a determining factor that contributes to accidents.

To ensure the safety of these professionals, the European Union’s Delegated Regulation 2022/1012 has introduced specific measures aimed at improving the living and working conditions of truck drivers. In particular, the regulation integrated into Regulation EC 561/2006 establishes precise standards regarding safety and quality for rest areas. These parking zones, essential for ensuring adequate rest periods, must meet specific safety and service requirements.

### The Importance of Certification by Control Bodies

To ensure that the parking areas meet these requirements, it is crucial that the bodies responsible for certification are accredited according to strict criteria. ISO/IEC 17021-1 standards provide a framework for accreditation but do not include specific provisions for the certification of rest areas. This has led to a lack of consistency in terms of compliance, which can generate confusion and uncertainty.

To overcome these difficulties, a pragmatic approach has been adopted by the Technical Management Board (TMB), which is committed to defining specific guidelines for the certification of these parking areas. The new directives aim to ensure consistency in compliance declarations in the market, thereby ensuring that truck drivers can rely on safe and adequately equipped spaces for their stops.

### Safety Standards and Service Levels

One of the key aspects of the Delegated Regulation is the definition of minimum service standards that parking areas must comply with. This includes not only the physical safety of the areas but also a range of additional services that enhance the quality of stay for truck drivers. Elements such as adequate lighting, surveillance, sanitation facilities, and recreational areas are essential to ensure a comfortable and safe stay.

Certification bodies will need to issue a declaration of conformity based on a rigorous assessment of the rest areas. Such declarations will help create a trust system between truck drivers and parking facilities, promoting a culture of safety that can effectively reduce the number of accidents.

### The Perspective of Transport Professionals

For truck drivers, safety is not just a matter of regulations and rules, but a daily necessity. Knowing that they have access to certified parking areas increases their peace of mind while traveling long distances. In an industry where risk is always present, it is essential to provide drivers with all possible guarantees so that they can remain focused and rested.

Safe and well-equipped rest areas will therefore be crucial not only for the well-being of drivers but also for the safety of other road users. By reducing the fatigue and stress of truck drivers, we contribute to a safer environment for everyone.

### Future Perspectives

The accreditation of safe and protected parking areas represents a significant step towards improving road safety. However, continuous evolution of practices and procedures is necessary to achieve tangible results.