Proactive prevention

Introduction

Comprehensive safety measures for young drivers are crucial due to their higher risk of accidents. With road collisions being a leading cause of death among young people, especially males, it is imperative for companies to fulfil their legal and social responsibilities in ensuring the safety of employees and other road users.

Responsibilities and compliance

Companies must implement various measures to ensure safety, including checking licenses, assessing driving skills and behaviour, managing operations, and providing training. Non-compliance with these safety measures can lead to prosecution under health and safety laws, with serious penalties, including fines and imprisonment, particularly in the case of a fatal accident.

Implementing effective safety measures

To enhance road safety, it is essential to implement work-related road safety policies, such as Driving at Work policies, risk assessments, and driver handbooks. Establishing robust safety management systems can tackle issues like poor driving habits, speeding, alcohol and drug testing, mobile phone use, and seat belt compliance. Additionally, considering a Graduated Driving Licence (GDL) system can support gradual driving privilege grants.

Enhancing safety through technology and training

Utilising Psychometric Behavioural Assessments can help identify risky driving behaviours, while ongoing coaching and scientifically validated tools like DriverMetrics can further improve safety. Technological advancements, such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and telematics, play a significant role in reducing collision risks and vehicle operating costs, thereby enhancing overall road safety.

Conclusion

Implementing these measures should result in enhanced road safety awareness and a reduced risk of accidents involving young drivers.

Importance of managing agency drivers

Agency drivers are essential but can increase collision risks if not managed well. Fleet operators are responsible for agency drivers' actions, just like permanent drivers. According to the Agency Workers Regulations 2010, agency workers should receive the same treatment as regular employees after 12 weeks in a job. Implementing these steps below can help improve agency driver policies and procedures, reduce risks, and ensure safety and compliance in fleet operations.

Selecting the right agency

Evaluate agency practices focusing on verifying driver identification, legal status, address, and history. Conduct driver license checks and assess driver knowledge and competency. Ensure drivers are well-matched to your organization and capable of performing required tasks. Manage health and safety risks, including road safety, and keep records of drivers' hours. Implement auditing and monitoring systems.

Choose an agency that prioritizes safety and driver welfare. Verify the agency's policies, compliance with driving hours, tachographs, and Driver CPC training. Ensure the agency keeps detailed records of drivers’ qualifications, experience, and legal documents. Review contract terms and ensure the agency is insured and financially stable. Prefer agencies that are members of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) Driver Sector Group. Ensure agency drivers are inducted, trained, monitored, and assessed to the same safety standards as permanent drivers.

Effective communication

Maintain clear communication with your agency to ensure the right number of qualified drivers. Hold regular meetings to plan driver needs and provide requirements in advance. Request proof of refresher training from the agency. Share safety alerts with the agency for driver communication. Include agency drivers in site safety meetings and invite agency managers to driver inductions. Create internal policies for using agency drivers and choose agencies with similar values. Conduct internal audits to ensure agency compliance and regularly review agency records.

Thorough selection and induction process

Choose agency drivers who meet the same safety standards as permanent drivers. Conduct thorough selection checks, including verifying the correct license for the vehicle, performing a basic eyesight check, testing knowledge of driving hours, work time rules, and vehicle defect checks. Conduct on-road or online behavioural assessments. Complete an agency driver questionnaire and verify the digital tachograph card. Plan with the agency for a pool of suitable drivers. Induct agency drivers into your fleet safety policies and procedures, covering all critical elements and expected standards.

Ongoing management of agency drivers

Treat regular or long-term agency drivers the same as permanent employees by including them in routine driving license checks, toolbox talks, Driver CPC training (if needed), health screenings, and staff welfare programs. Develop a training plan with the agency for these drivers and decide who will deliver the training.

Importance of driver licence checks

Ensuring the safety of all road users is essential, and UK law mandates that companies verify the driving qualifications of their employees. It is crucial not to rely solely on employees to keep their licenses current. If a driver’s license verification is not completed, assume they are unlicensed and suspend their driving privileges. Employees must report any driving convictions immediately. Strong license checking procedures are critical to managing risks and legal compliance.

Methods of verification

Every driver must have a full and valid license. Key aspects to check include endorsements, expiry dates, medical dates, category entitlements, disqualifications, and revocations. It is vital to maintain records of regular checks and any actions taken for issues found. Secure a copy of the driver's license or obtain a DVLA check. If the license cannot be verified, suspend business driving or the private use of company vehicles immediately.

Initial and ongoing physical checks

Physically checking the driver's original license during interviews and at regular intervals is a fundamental step. If this is not possible at the interview, conduct the check during induction. Drivers should present a PDF summary of their license or provide an access code for online data viewing. It is essential to ensure that supervisory staff performing these checks are trained and competent.

Third-party verification services

Using the Share Driving Licence website or companies with DVLA database access reduces fraud and saves time. It is advisable to choose providers registered with the Association for Driving Licence Verification (ADLV). Schedule license checks at various intervals and access data anytime. Drivers should sign a mandate during induction that allows data checks. Utilizing both physical and direct DVLA checks ensures a robust policy. Additionally, remember to check the licenses of occasional drivers, agency staff, contractors, and non-employee named drivers.

Agency staff licence checks

When using agency drivers, ensure they are part of your license checking process. For temporary drivers, a physical check and PDF summary are sufficient. Regular agency drivers should be included in routine, scheduled license checks.

Verification for foreign nationals

Driving licenses of non-UK drivers must be checked carefully. EU/EEA drivers can drive in Great Britain as long as their license is valid. Non-EU/EEA visitors with a full license can drive vehicles up to 3,500kg for up to 12 months. New residents must exchange their foreign licenses for a UK license within 12 months. Using third-party providers to check license entitlements or manually verifying foreign licenses with the DVLA and relevant embassies is recommended. Alternatively, require employees to convert to a UK license and check it according to your preferred method.

Driver Qualification Card (DQC)

LGV and PCV drivers must complete 35 hours of Driver CPC training every five years. This training is recorded on a Driver Qualification Card (DQC), which drivers must carry as proof of their Driver CPC status. Ensure that drivers have a valid DQC if applicable. Digital tachograph cards Ensure digital tachograph cards are valid and renewed every five years. The expiry dates can be checked via "share driving record" or through third-party providers.

ADR (dangerous goods) entitlement

Drivers transporting dangerous goods must complete initial and five-year refresher training, recorded on an ADR qualification card. Regularly check that drivers have a valid ADR qualification card covering the relevant categories of goods they will transport.

Introduction

Proper journey planning and adherence to safety measures are crucial, especially in adverse weather conditions. Both employers and employees share the responsibility of ensuring safe travel, check out some of the ways below which can enhance safety for all road users.

Journey planning

In adverse weather, journey planning is crucial and should be a shared responsibility between employer and employee. Assess if travel is necessary and make proper preparations to ensure safety. Check weather forecasts and adjust plans accordingly.

During the journey

Stay aware of weather conditions, follow electronic signs, listen to radio announcements, and contact your office for updates. Be ready to slow down and extend braking distances.

Driving in rain and floods

Avoid driving through flood water, as it can be deadly and cause significant damage. Increase stopping distances in wet conditions and be cautious of aquaplaning.

Driving in windy conditions

All vehicles are affected by wind, especially high-sided and vulnerable loads. Secure loads properly and avoid driving in severe winds. Follow road closure signs to ensure safety.

Driving in ice and snow

Use dipped headlights, increase following distances, and avoid harsh braking or steering. Clear snow from your vehicle, drive cautiously, and be aware of changing conditions. Driving in fog Use dipped headlights and fog lights when visibility is low. Maintain increased braking distances and avoid closely following other vehicles.

Parking and manoeuvring

Park away from other vehicles, reverse-park for better visibility, and make necessary vehicle checks before moving off. Use second gear when moving off in snow to reduce wheel slipping.

Personal safety

Inform someone of your travel plans, keep your vehicle locked, avoid stopping in remote areas, and be cautious when unlocking your vehicle.

If you have a work-related accident in a company vehicle, your company's insurance will handle the claim. However, you must inform your personal motor insurer about the accident. Insurers need all accident details to assess your risk. This includes any incidents like collisions, fire, theft, or damage, whether the vehicle is yours or your company's. Failing to report these can be seen as withholding information.

Company vehicle incidents won't affect your no-claims discount but will be considered when calculating your premium. Not informing your insurer can lead to future claims being rejected and your policy being voided, making it harder to get insurance later.

Introduction

Vulnerable Road Users (VRUs), including pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, and horse riders, face increased risk due to the absence of vehicle protection and reduced visibility. It’s vital for everyone, especially drivers, to exercise caution and ensure safe road practices. Zurich encourages motor fleet operators to adopt practical measures to minimize the risk of accidents involving VRUs.

Fleet Managers should prioritise visibility and safety features when selecting vehicles to ensure the protection of vulnerable road users (VRUs). Embracing new technologies like Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) can significantly enhance safety. Additionally, commercial vehicles with lower cabs and more windows improve driver visibility, facilitating better interaction with VRUs. The European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) now includes VRU Protection in its safety ratings, highlighting the importance of these features.

Vehicle blind spots

• Minimize blind spots to ensure driver visibility and safety of VRUs
• Visibility categories: Direct vision, Indirect vision, and Blind spots
• Businesses should consider these factors when choosing vehicles and planning routes

Blind spot devices

• Mirrors for all vehicles: Required mirrors for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes to cover blind spots
• In-vehicle Cameras for all vehicles: Cameras assist in detecting VRUs and stationary objects
• Proximity scanning cameras for LGV and HGV: Detect VRUs or objects close to the vehicle and alert the driver
• Side guards for LGV and HGV: Prevent pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists from going under the vehicle
• Audible alerts for vans, LGV, and HGV: Warn pedestrians and cyclists when a vehicle is turning or reversing
• Signage for LGV and HGV: Stickers and markings alert other road users to potential hazards
• Fresnel Lenses for LGV and HGV: Help drivers see the blind spot around the passenger door mirror

By implementing these measures, businesses and drivers can enhance the safety of vulnerable road users and reduce the risk of accidents.

Introduction

Electric and hybrid vehicles (EVs and E&HV) are increasingly popular due to their lower emissions and better fuel efficiency. The main types include Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV), Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV), and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV). These vehicles use high-voltage lithium-ion batteries, which can be dangerous if mishandled, necessitating new safety protocols in the motor industry.

Risks of working with electric and hybrid vehicles

Working with E&HV introduces several hazards, such as interference with medical devices like pacemakers, risk of electric shock from high-voltage components, and fire hazards from stored electrical energy and increased battery temperatures. Components may retain dangerous voltage even when off, and there are manual handling risks associated with battery removal. Additionally, the silent operation of these vehicles can lead to unawareness of movement.

Working safely with electric and hybrid vehicle

Employees must undergo specific training tailored to their roles for safe handling of E&HV. More extensive training is required for recovery and repair staff, with organisations like Thatcham Research offering relevant qualifications. When dealing with a disabled E&HV, personnel should check for damage to high-voltage components and isolate the battery if safe. Disconnect the standard battery during recovery to prevent accidental activation and ensure recovery staff are informed about the vehicle's status as an EV.

Maintenance and storage

Maintenance staff should follow manufacturer guidelines to ensure safety. Remote keys should be secured to prevent accidental vehicle movement, and high-voltage systems must be isolated and tested before any work. Even when isolated, components may retain voltage, so proper discharge procedures are crucial. After assessing a damaged E&HV, store it safely outdoors if necessary, keeping batteries dry and away from flammable materials. Secure storage and proper disposal of batteries are essential, following environmental regulations.

Valeting, sales, and other lower risk activities

Non-technical staff should receive training on the hazards associated with E&HV. Remote keys should be kept away from vehicles to prevent accidental movement, and employees must be aware of specific risks and necessary safety measures when handling these vehicles.

Latest research

Thatcham Research is investigating the effects of low-speed, side-impact accidents on BEV casings. They are interested in claims insights for different BEV makes/models, damage areas, and insurer assessment processes. This highlights the need for insurers to have specific procedures for assessing BEV damages and routing claims appropriately.

Introduction

Recent Home Office data shows a 50% rise in vehicle thefts over the past five years. The Association of British Insurers (ABI) reports that motor theft claims are at their highest since 2012, with payouts occurring every eight minutes. The financial impact of these claims has doubled, costing over £1.2 million daily. While traditional theft methods remain common, criminals are increasingly targeting vulnerabilities in electronic security, especially keyless entry systems. As vehicles become smarter, the risk of cyber threats like hacking is also growing, prompting a need for innovations such as biometric authentication.

Thatcham Research

Thatcham Research, established in 1969, has introduced a security rating system for new vehicles. This system helps consumers understand the theft risk by assessing whether manufacturers have improved security measures for keyless entry and start systems.

Theft prevention

To reduce vehicle theft risk, owners should keep keys secure and stored away from doors and windows, especially for keyless vehicles. Using signal-blocking pouches and considering key reprogramming can enhance security. Additional measures include installing steering wheel locks, alarms, and tracking systems, as well as parking in well-lit areas and avoiding leaving valuables in sight.

Catalytic converter theft

Catalytic converters contain valuable metals, making them targets for theft. Drivers should park in secure locations and consider installing alarms that activate if the vehicle is lifted. Using protective devices can also help.

Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs)

Theft from light commercial vehicles has increased by 45% in recent years, impacting business operations. Operators can prevent theft by using window guards, additional locks, and secure storage for tools, as well as ensuring proper insurance coverage.

Large Commercial Vehicles

Though theft of larger commercial vehicles is less frequent, it poses risks, particularly for fuel and goods. Drivers should avoid leaving keys in the ignition and utilize secure parking. Awareness of potential criminal traps is also essential.

Motor traders

For those in vehicle sales and service, strong security policies are crucial. Vehicle keys should be secured and access limited to designated staff. Regular reviews of security measures, including lighting and CCTV, will enhance protection.

Parked and stored vehicles accumulation risk

When many vehicles are parked together for long periods, the risk of theft and damage increases. To mitigate this, vehicles should be locked and spaced adequately, parked away from buildings and flammable materials. Keys must be securely stored, and security measures should be assessed based on location and vehicle value.