Kevin Ian Schmidt

Effectively managing a fleet of vehicles within a company involves more than mere logistical coordination; it encompasses mitigating risks, ensuring the safety of both drivers and assets, and optimizing operational efficiency. Unfortunately, for many businesses, especially those with a limited number of vehicles or larger enterprises that may overlook the integral role of their fleet, the necessity for a robust Fleet Safety Program can be underestimated.

A company’s fleet, if not managed with diligence, can become a hidden source of shrink, contribute to accidents, and escalate insurance costs. While logistics and trucking companies often recognize the criticality of focusing on fleet safety due to the nature of their operations, smaller businesses with a handful of vehicles may not fully grasp the importance of implementing a comprehensive safety program.

To proactively protect both employees and the fleet itself, employers can take several measures:

1. Establish Comprehensive Policies: Designate a key member of the management team with the responsibility and authority to develop and enforce a comprehensive driver safety policy. This policy should encompass all aspects of safe driving practices, from vehicle maintenance to adherence to traffic regulations.
2. Mandatory Seat Belt Use: Prioritize safety by enforcing mandatory seat belt use among all drivers. This seemingly simple measure can significantly reduce the risk of injuries in the event of an accident and instill a culture of safety within the organization.
3. Thoughtful Management of Driving Hours: Avoid requiring workers to drive irregular hours or extend far beyond their normal working hours. Driver fatigue is a common factor in accidents, and establishing reasonable driving hour expectations helps mitigate this risk.
4. Prohibit Cell Phone Usage While Driving: Implement policies that prohibit workers from conducting business on a cell phone while driving. Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents, and such policies contribute to a safer driving environment.
5. Develop Well-Considered Work Schedules: Create work schedules that allow employees to adhere to speed limits and comply with hours-of-service regulations. Thoughtful scheduling promotes safer driving practices and ensures compliance with industry regulations.

By implementing these comprehensive measures, businesses can transform their approach to fleet management, fostering a culture of safety, responsibility, and accountability. A well-structured Fleet Safety Program not only protects employees but also safeguards the company’s assets and minimizes potential liabilities. In the complex world of fleet management, prioritizing safety is an investment that pays dividends in the form of reduced accidents, lower insurance costs, and enhanced overall operational efficiency.

Check out this Sample Fleet Safety Policy from Secura Insurance

Fleet Management

• Adopt a structured vehicle maintenance program.
• Provide company vehicles that offer the highest possible levels of occupant protection.

Safety Programs

• Teach workers strategies for recognizing and managing driver fatigue and in-vehicle distractions.
• Provide training to workers operating specialized motor vehicles or equipment.
• Emphasize to workers the need to follow safe driving practices on and off the job.

Check out: How to Improve Your Safety Culture

Driver Performance

• Ensure that workers assigned to drive on the job have a valid driver’s license and one that is appropriate for the type of vehicle to be driven.
• Check driving records of prospective employees, and perform periodic rechecks after hiring.
• Maintain complete and accurate records of workers’ driving performance.

Source: NIOSH 2004-136:Work-related Roadway Crashes Prevention Strategies for Employers

I published a Fleet Safety Toolbox Talk on amazon, check it out.

An unmanaged fleet can cost your company profits, sometimes undetectable on the surface.