KEY questions on employment answered by experts.

Q: As an HR manager, I have just been offered extra responsibility for our 20-car fleet but I feel overwhelmed with the risk management aspect of it. Budgets are tight and I’m not sure where to start?

A: The easiest way of self managing the process is to use the online site www.realtimeriskassessment.co.uk, an internet-based assessment tool at a quarter of the cost of consultancy. Also, talk to your insurers as they may have a scheme which may be included in your current policy. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines would also be a good starting point. Looking at undertaking the risk assessment is the difficult part – the implementation of the recommendations can then be phased in and fitted with HR processes. At least if you start to do something, you are on your way.

Jeremy Hay, director, Essential Risk Consultancy

Q: Morale among drivers is low at the moment, mainly down to a high staff turnover within the company. How, as transport manager, can I boost morale?

A: You could introduce a rewards programme voted for by employees with the winner given the use of a high-specification car for a time. Specialist companies offer short-term hire/lease of a range of desirable brands. Even if you factor in insurance costs, the effect on morale will be more than recouped by improved performance levels.

Paul Turner, managing director, Alchemy Performance Development