Manage the risks associated with work related driving.
Employer responsibilities
Employer’s have a responsibility to identify, assess, control, monitor and review the risks associated with work-related driving, and consult with employees on work related driving occupational health and safety (OHS) issues. Specific requirements of road traffic laws also have to be met and cover matters such as vehicle roadworthiness, driver licensing and road rules, e.g. speed limits. Where applicable to the organisation, ensure the OHS management system includes:
- purchasing and maintaining a safe and roadworthy fleet
- ensuring employees have the relevant appropriate driver licenses
- scheduling work to account for speed limits and managing fatigue
- providing information and training on work related driving safety
- monitoring and supervision of work related driving safety program
Employee responsibilities
Employee duties include:
- holding a current, valid driver’s license
- abiding by all road rules, e.g. speed limits, not driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, seat belts, not using mobile phones while driving
- refraining from driving if impaired by tiredness or medication
- reporting any incidents required by the employer’s program
- carrying out any routine vehicle checks required by the employer
OHS risk management system for work related driving
Start by developing policy/ies on work related driving. This can include policies on vehicle selection and safe driving.
In addition, procedures should be developed such as:
- fatigue management
- area specific safety requirements e.g. country driving
- what to do in emergencies
- regular checking of worker and vehicle credentials e.g. checking the driver’s licence is still in force
When developing policy and procedures, make sure there is consultation with employees and areas of the organisation which may be able to add insight to the issues.
Stay up-to-date with the latest safety information on vehicle types. Have procedures which ensure the right vehicles are purchased for the job, e.g. will you need to transport clients with mobility issues. Have regular, preventative maintenance procedures in place for your vehicles. Consider driving risks when scheduling work, trip times, traffic congestion, routes, weather conditions.
Monitor the safe driving system to ensure it is effective. Regularly review policy and procedures . Remind workers to report driving related incidents and collect information on these incidents to ensure effective risk management.