Fleet safety priorities every organisation should review
BY NRMA CORPORATE DRIVER TRAINING
With National Safe Work Month approaching, now is the ideal time for organisations to review their fleet safety practices. According to Safe Work Australia, vehicle incidents accounted for 42 % of worker fatalities in 2024, highlighting driving as one of Australia ' s most significant workplace risks. Beyond the human cost, road incidents can disrupt operations, increase expenses and impact business reputation.
While many organisations already have fleet safety policies in place, the most effective programs are regularly reviewed and updated to address emerging risks, changing work practices and evolving road environments.
The NRMA Corporate Driver Training team has identified key areas employers and fleet managers should review to strengthen driver capability, reinforce safe driving behaviours and support workplace safety obligations.
Speed management
Speed remains a leading contributor to serious crashes. Compliance with speed limits is essential, but organisations should also consider whether delivery schedules, customer expectations or productivity targets may be encouraging drivers to rush.
Review journey schedules and performance measures to ensure they support safe driving practices. Where available, telematics data can help identify speeding trends and provide opportunities for targeted driver coaching.
Occupant protection
Seatbelts continue to be one of the most effective ways to reduce injury in a crash. Organisations should ensure restraint systems are regularly inspected and that seatbelt use forms part of fleet audits and safety checks.
Consistent communication from leadership, toolbox talks and ongoing driver engagement can help reinforce the importance of occupant protection across the organisation.
Fatigue risk management
Fatigue remains a major safety risk, particularly for regional, shift-based and long-distance drivers. Research conducted by the NRMA found that one in five drivers have nodded off or closed their eyes while driving.
Managing fatigue requires organisational controls, not simply relying on drivers to self-manage. Employers should review rosters, travel schedules and journey planning processes to ensure adequate rest opportunities are available. Drivers should also receive education on recognising and responding to fatigue before it affects safety.
Driver distraction
With vehicles becoming increasingly connected, distraction risks continue to grow. Mobile phones, in-vehicle technology and cognitive distractions can all reduce driver attention and reaction times.
Organisations should ensure mobile phone policies reflect current best practice and that
32 ISSUE 60 AUGUST 2026 / WWW. AFMA. ORG. AU