SIMPLE treatments for the common cold could make employees unfit to drive, fleets have been warned.

Drugs such as antihystamines have the same ingredient as found in sleep remedies, so drivers must check what they are taking if they are planning to drive afterwards.

Delegates at the ACFO southern regional meeting heard that some companies print their drug and alcohol policy on a small credit card, which drivers can then show to the pharmacist when they are asking for medicine.

Drink-drive expert Roger Singer, from risk management consultancy Avoidd, said: ‘Remedies for colds are important. After all, if you sneeze while travelling at 70mph your eyes are closed for 105 feet, but you need to know what you are taking.’