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.

For the full unit details, please download the latest version of the qualification specification. This is available for download on the relevant qualifications page.

Unit Learning Outcomes

To view the assessment criteria and any additional content, please expand the relevant learning outcome below.

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.