Company vehicles are a great way to save on travel costs, but they can also be dangerous if not driven safely. As an employer, it’s your responsibility to ensure your employees know the risks associated with operating a company vehicle. Here are some tips to help you promote safer driving in your workplace:
1. Require employees to complete a defensive driving course.
The best way to reduce the risk of accidents is to ensure your employees are well-trained in defensive driving techniques. Defensive driving refers to the skills that help drivers avoid accidents by anticipating and responding to potential hazards on the road. Many professional driving schools offer defensive driving courses, and some employers even offer these courses on-site.
If you require your employees to complete a defensive driving course, make sure you choose a reputable provider. The National Safety Council offers a variety of online and classroom-based defensive driving courses that are designed for businesses.
2. Implement a cell phone policy.
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents, so it’s essential to have a policy that prohibits employees from using their cell phones while driving. Your policy should include provisions for hands-free devices, such as Bluetooth headsets, and be enforced consistently.
Writing and enforcing a cell phone policy is just one way to reduce distracted driving in the workplace. You can also promote safer driving by discouraging employees from eating, drinking, or smoking while driving.
3. Conduct regular maintenance checks on company vehicles.
Ensuring that company vehicles are properly maintained is another essential way to promote safe driving in the workplace. Make sure you have a regular maintenance schedule in place and that all employees know it. Employees should also know how to check fluid levels, tire pressure, and other essential maintenance items.
In addition, you should also invest in vehicle improvements that can help promote safe driving, such as window tinting services. Tinted windows can reduce glare and improve visibility, making it easier for drivers to see potential hazards on the road. You can also consider outfitting company vehicles with GPS tracking devices to help you monitor employee driving habits and identify potential safety issues.
4. Offer incentives for safe driving.
One way to encourage safe driving in the workplace is to offer incentives for employees who practice good driving habits. You can give employees who have a clean driving record a bonus, gift card, or other prizes for a certain period. You can also offer safe driving rewards to employees who report unsafe driving behavior.
Different companies will have different types of incentives that work best for them. You’ll need to decide what type of incentive will most effectively promote safe driving in your workplace.
5. Establish strict policies regarding speeding, tailgating, and other unsafe driving behaviors.
In addition to offering incentives for safe driving, you should also establish strict policies regarding speeding, tailgating, and other unsafe driving behaviors. You should clearly communicate these policies to all employees and enforce them consistently.
Aside from the obvious risks associated with speeding and tailgating, these behaviors can also increase fuel costs and vehicle wear and tear. By establishing strict policies, you can help reduce these costs and promote safer driving for your employees.
6. Encourage employees to take breaks during long trips.
Fatigue is a major cause of accidents, so it’s essential to encourage employees to take breaks during long trips. Employees should stop every two hours or so to stretch their legs, use the restroom, and grab a snack or drink.
If possible, you should also encourage employees to share their driving duties on long trips. Long business rides don’t have to be all work and no play. Employees can take turns driving and use the time to catch up on work, return phone calls, or even take a nap.
7. Promote a culture of safety in the workplace.
Creating a culture of safety in your workplace starts with you. As the employer, you need to set the tone for safety in the workplace. This means leading by example and promoting safe driving habits among your employees. You want to make sure your employees feel comfortable speaking up about safety concerns and that they know you will take their suggestions seriously.
You should also make sure your employees know that they can report unsafe driving behavior without fear of retribution. By promoting a safety culture, you can help reduce accidents and promote a safer workplace for everyone.
These are just a few tips to help promote safe driving in the workplace. If you have a company vehicle, make sure you’re taking steps to ensure your employees are driving safely. Your employees’ safety should always be a top priority. With a little effort, you can help ensure your employees arrive safe and sound at their destination.
