Opening the Charge Door: Public Access and Safety

Carbon reduction targets might be a moving target, but they are there and they are not going away. Transport is the largest emitting sector of greenhouse gas, so electric vehicles are an essential part of the UK and Ireland’s carbon neutral goals. That’s all well and good, but even if there were enough charging stations for fleets to make the switch with confidence, how about the safety implications for the public?

The Switch to EVs and Public Safety

There’s a brutal logic to the idea that the answer to carbon emissions is EVs. Assuming that the manufacturing process is green, then there is no denying that electricity is a cleaner energy source. However, if every fleet suddenly became electric, there’s just not enough charging stations. So, as the number of commercial and personal EVs grow, there comes the problem of safety at charging stations.

Traditional fuel infrastructure doesn’t have this problem, because refuelling pumps for larger vehicles are generally separated. But, with a paucity of rapid charging points, both the public and commercial drivers will be clambering to use the same spaces.

It’s easy to see how this could result in safety and liability issues. Both the government and fleet managing employees need to be cognisant of risks, and put robust strategies in place.

Government's Role in Ensuring Safe, Public Charging Infrastructure

Apart from the obvious need to expand the network of chargers, the government has a critical role in developing and maintaining public EV charging stations that are safe and accessible. This includes:

Setting Safety Standards: Implementing stringent safety standards for the construction and operation of charging stations.

Regulatory Oversight: Regular inspections and compliance checks to ensure ongoing safety and functionality.

Public Accessibility: Ensuring that charging stations are accessible to all users, including adequate spacing for safety, clear signage, and 24/7 accessibility to accommodate the varying schedules of both public and fleet vehicles.

Public Safety and Commercial Liability Shouldn’t Be an Afterthought!

The expansion of electric vehicles is essential if we are to hit carbon targets. This simple fact comes with some very complicated challenges. Many of these are being endlessly discussed throughout the industry. However, the problems relating to public safety and fleet management are often overlooked. 

By taking a proactive approach to EV integration and working closely with government bodies, fleet managers can ensure that the transition not only meets environmental targets but also safeguards the wellbeing of both employees and the general public. Balancing these considerations will be key to a successful and safe rollout of electric vehicles across the UK.

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