Working in Logistics

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 2
Unit No:
F/617/5717
Credits:
3
Guided learning hours:
24 hours

Aim

The aim of this unit is to provide learners with an informed awareness of logistics as a sector and an appreciation of roles, responsibilities and working practices which exist within the logistics environment.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1

Understand the logistics sector.

  • Contribution to supply chains
    Control the flow of goods; reduce costs; increase efficiencies; improves customer service; adds value; decreases waste of materials and time; coordination of freight movements; right products, right place, right time.
  • Contribution to wider economy
    Meet ever changing customer expectations; support production efficiencies through, for example, JIT; drive improvements in technology; supports efficiency improvements for all businesses; logistics supports other business functions; supports competitive advantage; supports globalisation.
  • Services
    Warehousing; express delivery; regular transportation; packaging; inventory management; materials handling; reverse logistics.
  • Types
    Supply; distribution (freight, courier); production; reverse logistics; third party logistics; procurement; logistics management.

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Explain how logistics contributes to an effective supply chain.

  • 1.2

    Explain how logistics contributes to the wider economy.

  • 1.3

    Describe the services typically offered by logistic organisations.

  • 1.4

    Describe common types of logistic activities.

2

Know about working in a logistics environment.

  • Entry level jobs and qualification requirements
    ~     Level 1 qualification in logistics or warehousing and logistics
       Stock Replenishment, Stores Assistant, Stock Picker, Stock Packer, Vehicle Loader, Sortation  Operative.
    ~ Level 2 qualification in logistics or warehousing and storage
       Warehouse Operative, Fork Lift Truck Driver, Traffic Clerk, Import/Export Clerk, Freight Forwarder; Stock Controller.
    ~ Level 2 qualification in the carriage of goods
       Van Driver, HGV Driver, Rigid Vehicle Driver
  • Career opportunities
    ~ Stores Assistant - Warehouse Operative - Warehouse Team Leader - Logistics Manager - Supply Chain Manager
    ~ Vehicle Loader - Route Planner - Freight Forwarder - Traffic Officer - Distribution Manager
    ~ Van Driver - HGV Driver - Transport Supervisor - Transport Manager - Transport and Warehouse Manager

  • Working arrangements
    Shifts; flexi-time; condensed hours; part-time; full-time; contract; temporary; seasonal; permanent; agency; zero hours.

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1

    Describe entry level jobs in logistics and associated qualification requirements.

  • 2.2

    Outline progression opportunities within logistics.

  • 2.3

    Describe different working arrangements within logistics.

3

Understand effective working practices in a logistics environment.

  • Working practices
    Defined as the way work is usually conducted.
    Good working practices include, being given clear expectations; being punctual; being motivated; being organised; individuals using skills and knowledge; support from management; communication between departments

  • Benefits of using effective working practices
    Increased productivity, improved quality; reduced costs; improved teamwork; reduced sickness and absence; improved staff retention; improved healthy and safe working environment.

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1

    Illustrate effective working practices in a logistics environment.

  • 3.2

    Explain the benefits of effective working practices in a logistics environment.

4

Understand legislation relevant to logistic operations.

  • Effect of general legislation
    Health and Safety at Work Act – improved performance, protect employees and visitors from injury; lower injury related costs; reduce compensation costs; improved productivity.General Data Protection Regulation –gives individuals control of their information; unifies international business; establishes reporting guidelines; simplifies the regulatory environment for businesses
    Working Time Directive – limits maximum driving hours; limits maximum working hours; stipulates rest periods between shifts; stipulates minimum amount of paid holiday per year; limits the hours which can be worked at night.
    Equality Act – establishes protected characteristics; strengthens current legislation; stipulates what reasonable adjustments must be made; stipulates employers must take reasonable and positive action to help employees in their job.
  • Specific legislation
    Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations – equipment must be suitable for the task; equipment must be safe to use; equipment must be maintained in a safe condition; equipment must not present health and safety risks; equipment users must have been trained.
    Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations – employers must protect employees from harmful substances; hazardous goods must be safely and securely stored and transported; hazardous substances must be correctly labelled; training must be given before some handles/moves hazardous goods; regular risk assessments are required; hazardous substances must be effectively controlled and accounted for.
    Modern Slavery Act (includes human trafficking laws) – extra checks on non-UK employees; encourages transparency in the supply chain; high fines for human trafficking; increased checks of vehicle loads; logistics operators need to be more proactive; changes to recruitment policies and practices. 

Assessment Criteria

  • 4.1

    Explain how logistic operations are affected by different pieces of legislation

    • relevant to all businesses
    • specific to the logistics sector.