COMPANY car drivers could be among workers affected by European proposals to specify acceptable working hours. The EC has already issued a working time directive stating acceptable hours in most areas of industry, but left transport out of the document.

Discussions about extending the directive to transport, which may take in company car drivers, are being discussed, but an EC spokesman said talks were at a very early stage. Difficulties have still to be overcome, such as the difference between working time and driving time and whether time in the car can be treated the same as time in the office.

The talks highlight the growing role of fleet managers as they are charged with providing a complete transport solution, instead of just cars. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents said: 'It comes down to making sure staff do not get pressured into making too many journeys. Safety is fine in the office, but often, when a driver is on the road, employers tend to forget they are still at work.'