FLEET decision-makers are being urged to take responsibility for developing risk management and encourage best practice throughout their companies.

Willis Motor Initiatives is offering tips to provide staff with a clear health and safety policy which could improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Nick Williams, sales and marketing director of Willis Motor Initiatives, said: 'Accident rates for fleet vehicle drivers are estimated to be 30-40% higher than for private drivers. It is vital to develop and maintain a good safety record. Companies need to adopt an active approach to managing their fleet and the number of accidents involving company drivers and vehicles.

'Achieving high standards of safety should be as high on the company agenda as other areas of fleet business, to ensure maximum efficiency. For self-insuring fleets, every pound spent on accident-related costs will have a direct result on the bottom line of the business.'

Willis recommendations

  • Create a statement for staff to refer to, featuring clear objectives.
  • Make sure the programme is supported by senior management and safety is put high on the agenda at relevant meetings.
  • Use and analyse information from previous incidents such as types of incidents and individual drivers.
  • Set clear objectives such as improving driver training and setting customer delivery guidelines.
  • Introduce driver fitness standards such as eyesight checks.
  • Reduce journey risk such as long distances, driving at night and control drivers' hours with allowance for rest breaks.
  • Investigate the cause of accidents and set up a report procedure.
  • Regularly review performance against stated objectives and targets and keep staff updated.