MORE than two-thirds of small and medium sized firms are risking prosecution because they are not checking to ensure staff are fit to drive on company business.

According to a survey by HSBC Vehicle Finance, 69 per cent of small companies undertake no risk assessment at all, including even a basic driving licence check, with the number rising slightly to 61 per cent for medium sized organisations.

Jonathan Craymer, secretary of the Fleet Driver Training Association, said: 'All businesses which require staff to drive on their behalf should check licences. Firstly to ensure that they have them; secondly to check that they are appropriate for the types of vehicle to be driven; and thirdly, to see there are no convictions.'

HSBC recommends that all checks are made and that records of driving assessments and follow-up action be well documented and kept in order to combat the threat of prosecution from forthcoming governmental work related road safety regulations. Tim Holmes, head of HSBC Vehicle Finance said: 'Corporate culture needs to be imbued with a responsibility to staff at all levels.'