Ask Elite - May 2010
What would be a cost effective way of focussing my drivers' attention on improving safety?
We have developed an accident de-briefing programme to assist in both focussing the attention of your drivers on safety and also bringing about a change in culture. This was introduced in November 2009 and has achieved rewarding, and at times surprising, results.
The questionnaire deals with the three basic elements, the driver, the vehicle and the journey. Specially trained staff contact the driver within 24 hours of the accident being reported and having explained the purpose of the questionnaire use a conversational approach to gain detailed information ranging from the purpose of the journey and circumstances through to preparation and anticipation.
For one major fleet client a number of interesting results were found that could potentially reduce future incidents and could easily be addressed at minimal cost.
For example, of the employees who by necessity wore spectacles for driving 34% did not carry a spare pair in the vehicle. In cases where the employee was not the last person to drive the vehicle only 42% took the time to adjust the driving seat and mirrors. 46% said that better preparation would have allowed them to avoid the incident.
Questions can be tailored to take into consideration the fleet make up and accident record however the news that all drivers involved in a vehicle accident will be questioned soon spreads through the company and in itself heightens safety awareness.
For details of this programme or to discuss fleet safety issues please contact me on 01273 797956.
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