RoSPA Press Office : Press Release

December 7, 1999
TACKLING ROAD DANGERS FOR COMPANY CAR DRIVERS

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents is organising a new series of courses aimed at cutting the number of accidents involving company car and van drivers.

Designed for fleet, transport and health and safety managers, the training sessions are the latest phase of RoSPA’s campaign on Managing Occupational Road Risk (MORR). Delegates will receive a copy of Creating an Accident Free Culture by Ed Dubens to help them conduct a strategic review of their fleet’s risk profile.

The Society believes more than 800 road deaths each year may be linked with people driving for work.

Ed Hall, RoSPA General Manager Consultancy and Training, said: "When an employee is behind the wheel of a vehicle, they are still at work and owed the same duty of care by their employer as if they were in a factory or office. Sadly, far too many companies do not seem to realise this, and ignore their responsibilities towards the safety of their drivers.

"The courses look at the potential operational and financial benefits of managing occupational road risk, like reductions in staff absences, repair costs, insurance claims and fuel costs.

"As well as making employees and other road users safer, these courses can result in a more efficient and effective fleet."

Bob Smalley, RoSPA General Manager Driver Services, said: "Organisations and companies which have sent delegates on previous RoSPA MORR courses are now tailoring driver training to meet the specific needs of their high-, medium- and low-risk drivers.

"The more miles someone drives the more at risk they are - but initiatives like training, safe route planning and the correct selection of vehicles can help to reduce those risks."

The courses will be held in Birmingham on January 24, February 16, April 4, June 14, September 11, October 9 and December 4. Courses are planned for Edinburgh on January 13, June 5, September 5 and November 3.