The Institute of Road Transport Engineers (IRTE) is gathering its irtec expert working group to discuss the integration of new technologies into its accreditation.

A new version of the irtec standard is set to be introduced in the next 12 months which will broaden the range of skills assessed to take into account the impact of emerging technologies, such as alternative fuels, on maintenance operations.

Further consultations with industry will take place before the final version is completed.

IRTE pioneered the irtec Licensing Scheme for technicians and mechanics and IRTE Workshop Accreditation for passenger carrying and commercial vehicle workshops. It is part of the Society of Operations Engineers (SOE) which supports and regulates engineering in the sector and the engineers working in it.

John Parry, chair of the irtec Steering Group, said: 'We are now at a point where we feel it is essential to update the irtec standard for technicians in the commercial vehicle and bus and coach sectors.

'Road transport has been quick to adopt new practices and it is our job as providers of an industry standard accreditation to ensure that the requirements of the workshop are aligned with the licence.

'It is a positive move that will continue to clearly reflect a technician's job role and experience, fully recognising how both the practical and theoretical roles of a modern technician are changing'

The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) will continue to approve new irtec assessment centres and monitor assessments with IRTE.

Steve Nash, chief executive officer of the IMI, said: 'This is an exciting and necessary move. Irtec is respected throughout the industry, by technicians and operators, as a standard that guarantees competence, boosts confidence and demonstrates a commitment to safe operating procedures.

'As alternative fuels and integrated systems continue to shake-up the sector, the underlying maintenance must be adapted in line. To do this, it is crucial that the irtec standard is adapted to meet these requirements and prepare businesses for the years ahead'

Daniel Moir, the Society of Operations Engineers (SOE) head of operations, said: 'We have been listening to industry and have worked on the progression of the standard extensively. With further consultation we will know how to adapt irtec to meet the fast-evolving conditions of the road transport sector'