At last - sweet relief.

After much hemming and hawing, the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) has agreed to re-examine the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992.

What does this mean?

Well, among other things, that the current spartan legislation concerning driver facilities is coming under review.

And not a minute too soon.

The new guidance will state that any premises visited by drivers as part of their job must be kitted-out with the appropriate welfare facilities.

Great. But, when will the new rule be let loose?

Admittedly, it may take a little while. The changes come off the back of a long-running dispute between the government and industry bodies (namely, the RHA and FTA) regarding the shortage of suitable washroom, rest and parking facilities for HGV drivers.

Back in October, FTA's Head of European Policy, Pauline Basildon, said: "The lack of suitable places for drivers to take legally mandated weekly rest breaks, located near main access roads and with secured parking facilities, is of critical concern. Urgent action is required from governments across Europe to ensure adequate driver facilities are available to enable freight operators to undertake their jobs safely and securely."

Upon hearing of the HSE's concession, the RHA was bursting to make its voice heard:

"If this industry is to retain a healthy, safe workforce, then drivers must have access to proper facilities," said RHA chief Richard Burnett. "This problem for many members and their drivers is all too familiar. Visiting drivers are often refused access to toilet facilities at delivery sites – an unacceptable practice that we are determined to eradicate."

The issue cuts deeper still. Given news of the shortage of HGV drivers in the UK, you'd think the government would pull out all the stops to entice people into the industry. The competence of the authorities is called into question, though, when such basic provisions as toilets and sinks have to be asked for, and asked for again.

Want to celebrate this victory over State legislation? Check out our no-nonsense handbook for life behind the V8: