How do we ensure our drivers are ‘fit to drive’?
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You need to have a process in place to record that a driver has completed a
written declaration on joining the company, confirming that they are permitted
to drive, fully (and appropriately) licenced and medically fit. This process should
be repeated on a regular basis.
Do we have a drivers’ handbook?
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Every business should issue a comprehensive drivers’ handbook that sets out
exactly what you expect from your drivers, including driving standards, vehicle
awareness and inspection, vehicle usage, safe loading and towing, use of mobile
devices and all other company or industry-specific requirements. This handbook
content should be periodically reviewed and updated in accordance with changing legislation and best practice guidelines.
How do we recognise and manage fleet-related
risks?
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A written road safety policy that covers work related road risks is a must. You
must be confident that the processes you have in place provide adequate risk
analysis and protection for vehicles, drivers, associated equipment and working
practices, and that your exposure in all of these areas is minimal. You must also
carry out risk assessments on all drivers and use the results to help identify specific risks and provide relevant and appropriate training as required.
What do we do to manage drivers working hours?
By law, you must have a process in place to ensure all your drivers comply with
both the drivers’ hours rules applicable to your operation (EU and / or UK Domestic) and the working time directives.
How do we investigate driving incidents?
(such as accidents, fines, reports of poor driving, damage of vehicle/equipment)
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We recommend that you have a process in place that enables you to identify,
log, investigate and follow up incidents involving company drivers, so that you
can address training or disciplinary needs and record incident details for future
reference.
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