Fleets are being advised to ensure they have the right policies in place to protect themselves and their drivers against drug driving in the wake of a Government campaign.
The £2.3 million campaign has been launched after new research showed that one-in-10 young male drivers admit to driving after taking illegal drugs.
“Employers need to raise awareness of no tolerance around drug use, which may be significantly more prevalent than they think,” explained Fleet Operations managing director Ross Jackson.
“The first step is ensuring companies create a clear policy requiring safe driving at all times.”
Road safety charity Brake, which welcomed the Government campaign, has adopted an anti-drink and drug driving theme around its annual Road Safety Week – Not a Drop, Not a Drag - which takes place from November 23-29.
“Companies have a responsibility to promote safety,” explained Roz Cumming, Fleet safety Forum manager for Brake.
“This means educating drivers about the dangers of impaired driving and doing all they can to ensure their drivers don’t risk their own lives and those of other road users by driving under the influence of any substance, whether illegal or otherwise.”
A Road Safety Week pack for fleet managers on this topic, including a guidance sheet, poster and advice for drivers can be ordered for free from Brake on 01484 559909 or by emailing admin@brake.org.uk.