NEW risk management company Risk Answers has launched a 10-point action plan to help employers meet future duty of care responsibilities towards employees driving on business.

The company has urged bosses to set up safeguards against impending at-work road safety proposals that could lead to prosecutions for negligent conduct.

Chris Howell, operations and finance director of Risk Answers, said: 'Directors, by taking a series of straightforward but vital measures now, and ensuring at-risk work management becomes a key part of the company's culture can avoid legal action in the future.'

Implementation of the measures will go some way to cutting the chance of directors ending up in jail because of incidents involving at-work drivers.

Risk Answers believes the recommendations from the Government-backed Work-related Road Safety Group illustrates Government willingness to work with companies rather than fight against them. It is almost certain the proposals will encompass all business mileage, in either private or company cars. This presents further problems, such as insurance cover. Non-executive director David Faithful, said: 'A driver may not realise the limits of occupational cover on normal car insurance. Employers must ensure employees driving their own vehicles on company business are properly covered. In the event of an incident directors could find themselves liable.'

1. Assess the driving capabilities of all new drivers
2. Routinely screen driving licences of all employees – not just company car drivers
3. Implement condition of vehicle spot checks
4. Monitor all drivers' working and travelling time
5. Record and statistically analyse all accidents
6. Undertake a full risk assessment
7. Act on information gleaned and prioritise solutions
8. Design a management plan and communicate to staff
9. Introduce a driving safety culture that does not lightly accept accidents
10. Provide targeted education and training for drivers