Companies that employ drivers for work have a precise duty of care: they must ensure that all employees act within the law. With regards to drivers, this must extend beyond the business premises; their safety on the public highway must be considered and also that of other road users.
But how do you secure the kind of peace of mind that comes from protecting your company against potential fines and sanctions incurred by fleet drivers?
Here are 5 steps you should take in order to reduce risks and meet legal requirements:
#1 - Have a strong audit procedure
We are continuously reiterating the importance of creating internal procedures as well as comprehensive fleet policies that address all the important aspects of your business. Driver licence checks are an essential component, and should be scheduled on a regular basis.
#2 - Be sure you know all of your drivers
As an employer, you should make sure your drivers are fit to work, from the first to the last, from part-time to full time, from the ones using a company car to HGV drivers.
#3 - Make sure you practice risk assessment
Drivers are an important asset for your company, aren’t they? Safety for everyone on the road, including your staff, has to be a priority. Be ready to assess drivers and if some are found to be high risk, training is the answer. In the unfortunate event of an incident you will be required to demonstrate that you have carried out all of the necessary assessments to ensure your drivers are fit to work.
#4 - Have your drivers doing the necessary health checks regularly
Typically, your drivers should take eyesight tests annually in order to guarantee, as far as reasonable, that they still comply with legal requirements. Health checks are also essential to catch any problems in time.
#5 - Ensure drivers are aware of breaks and timing rules
Check if your drivers are able to reach their destinations within a reasonable time and that they take sufficient breaks.
It is important to have an action plan that includes these 5 points. Counting on luck or continuously procrastinating, with regards to tackling these important issues, is surely not an option, and should never enter a company’s or fleet manager’s mind...
