There will always be risks associated with driving. Although these cannot be completely controlled an employer has a responsibility to take all reasonable steps to manage these risks down to as low a level as reasonably possible in the same way as they would in the workplace.
Fleet managers can find guidance for Driving for Better Business (DFBB) and Roadsafe.
One of DFBB’s champions is United Utilities Operational Services, which not only reduced its accident crash rate but has also saved considerable sums by introducing a road safety map.
The Health and Safety Executive explains that all employers whose employees must use the public roads as part of their job have duty of care obligations for those employees and other road users.
Everyone who uses the public highway must comply with road traffic legislation which is managed by the Department for Transport (DfT). This covers aspects as diverse as requirements, for vehicles to be regularly examined for road worthiness through to the application of speed limits.
Both the police and the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) maintain a roadside presence and take the lead on the enforcement of this legislation.
The Health and Safety Executive supports and works closely with the DfT, the Police, VOSA and other government and industry stakeholders to improve standards on the road.
Managing the risks to employees who drive at work requires more than just compliance with road traffic legislation.
The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 requires employers to take appropriate steps to ensure the health and safety of their employees and others who may be affected by their activities when at work. This includes the time when they are driving, or riding at work, whether this is in a company or hired vehicle, or in the employees own vehicle.
On the following pages you can read case studies of how best practice fleets have reduced their risk and saved thousands of pounds at the same time.
See our Driver Management Section.