As a business owner, the safety of your workers is paramount. These standards must not slip whether they are working on your premises or representing your company further afield.
Unfortunately, traffic accidents continue to occur nationwide, and the roads are ever dangerous. If you have employees using company vehicles to perform their roles, you must do everything possible to ensure their safety on the road.
You have more influence in these situations than you may yet realize. While irresponsible entrepreneurs believe that their fleet drivers should simply ‘drive well’ to avoid complications, wise and caring leaders know that they always have options to improve conditions for workers.
Here are some tips to help you improve the safety of your fleet drivers.
Equip Fleet Drivers with an OBD2 Scanner
An OBD2 scanner is a small device that can be plugged into a vehicle’s OBD port. From there, users can access real-time data on the status of their vehicle systems.
OBD stands for on-board diagnostics. The 2 means that the technology is now in its second generation. Companies like Carly can explain the devices in more detail and help you find the best OBD2 scanner for your fleet drivers. Their scanner is compatible with many cars, including BMW, Skoda, Volkswagen and more. Their app also has many functions around running diagnostics, performing used car checks, and detailing error histories and maintenance intervals.
Leave no stone unturned when it comes to your fleet vehicles. Ensure everything is in good order with the latest technology. Your fleet drivers will know that you are looking out for them with an OBD2 scanner and take extra care in monitoring their vehicle’s continued performance.
Choose the Right Vehicles
Just because an OBD2 scanner can work with a range of vehicles does not mean you should use any vehicle for your fleet. Some makes and models will be safer and more reliable than others.
The Volvo XC60 and XC40 models are sometimes touted as the safest fleet cars. The BMW 3 series, Audi A1, and the Alfa Romeo Giulia are also featured on listicles of secure fleet vehicles.
Do some independent research and learn about each car’s safety features. Consult your fleet drivers for their input. Stay updated on developments in the auto industry to make future upgrades.
Install Dash Cams
Dash cams are vital for road users today. As horrific traffic collisions continue to transpire, your fleet drivers must have footage that proves they were not responsible.
Keeping your fleet drivers safe sometimes means keeping them safe from themselves too. The installation of a dashcam can discourage any reckless driving behaviours on their part. The evidence of any incident is plain for all to see, even should your fleet driver be at fault. A camera can make people act rationally and responsibly quickly.
It may also be useful to review dashcam footage intermittently, even if no incidents are reported. Could the fleet drivers improve their technique? Are there any routes they are taking dangerous or serving as unnecessary detours? There may be an odd habit in their performance that might help you improve their safety, even in small ways. Any future training initiatives you launch for drivers could address any major or minor faults you detect.
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