Maintenance checks and inspections have to be performed regularly in order to keep your fleet in good shape and remain compliant with legal requirements as well as to maximise the safety of every team member.
Sometimes though, it is not only difficult to focus on the importance of this area but also to get drivers to carry out basic vehicle checks and to notify the fleet manager promptly when it is necessary to send vehicles for servicing in compliance with the manufacturer's recommendations and organise mechanical attention so as to comply with the law (as maintenance itself should be carried out by specialised staff).
Drivers are often stressed with their schedule and the pressure they are under to meet deadlines which can lead to them evaluating a lot of things when deciding whether to continuing working for the same company. In such a situation, it is vital to get their loyalty and full participation. But how does positive input from drivers impact your fleet; why is it so important to involve them?
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1. Vehicle lifetime increases
If your drivers collaborate fully and perform vehicle checks regularly, the lifespan of your fleet vehicles increases. With a solid maintenance system involving regular and daily checks and the help of your drivers to do vehicle inspections pre-trip, you will ensure vehicles are kept roadworthy.
2. No sanctions
Of course if drivers do not carry out walkaround checks, there are also legal consequences which might result in fines for your company. If you ensure there is collaboration, this will be eliminated.
3. Minimising downtime
Regular checks help minimise downtime, which is also an important source of cost for your company. Completely eliminating downtime is virtually impossible, though actions involving checks and so on can be taken in order to keeping downtime to a minimum.
4. Driver retention
Getting drivers more active and deeply involved in the day-to-day running of your fleet and making them participate in activities, even if solely for work, is one of the strategies that lead to better retention and keeping the best talent in the company.
