ONE of the first fleets to issue its drivers with in-house driving licences has issued the results of a two–year road-risk management programme, claiming massive reductions in accidents.

Engineering supplier Barnes Group UK has seen accidents fall by 20% – from 52 to 41 – since introducing the RiskMaster programme run by management firm the Fleet Support Group (FSG) two years ago. Maintenance costs have been reduced by 14%, from £37,842 to £32,463, and insurance premiums for the fleet, which comprises 60 light commercial vehicles and 50 cars, cut by 40%.

RiskMaster is designed to help companies set objectives, and asks fleet managers to apply for an online ‘permit to drive’ for all drivers, including employees driving non-company vehicles. Without it, employees were not allowed to drive on business.

The drivers are asked a series of questions to establish their risk on the road and identify who might need further training, which is provided by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.

Jeremy Jarvis, Barnes’ finance director, said: ‘Buy-in to the objective and the benefits was virtually unanimous, with the response from the majority of staff and their partners immediate and positive.

‘We had a mix of information provided, both on-line and in hard copy.

‘Drivers with nothing to hide complied quickly and, although some had ‘forgotten’ incidents, overall the quality of driver-provided information was excellent.’

Jarvis said the results spoke for themselves. He added: ‘We have seen a significant increase in driver appreciation of the company’s attitude. Staff have recognised the all-round value and the company is seen to be doing something positive. It’s a win-win situation.’