The hazards associated with driving for work increase greatly in the winter months. The season brings with it darker, shorter days and bad weather such as rain, hail, fog, and snow. While employers can’t directly control roadway conditions, they can promote and influence safe driving behaviour and actions by their employees. Here’s some guidance to help you...
As an employer, you’re required to conduct risk assessments for your drivers, taking into account the hazards present and implementing control measures.
In order to prepare your drivers this winter, it’s crucial to communicate the following advice to help ensure they’re equipped to deal with whatever the season throws at them.
Driving Preparation
Before your drivers hit the road, they should always:
- Check the weather forecast and road conditions.
- Consider alternative routes where necessary.
- Allow extra time to clear the windows properly and carry an ice-scraper and de-icer.
- Ensure that vehicles are prepared for the journey and have anti-freeze in them.
- Make sure all lights work and that drivers use them to see, be seen and be safe.
- Check that tyre pressures are correct and check they have at least 3 mm of tread.
- Make sure they have sufficient windscreen washer fluid at winter strength in the reservoir.
- Check that they have enough fuel for the journey with a reserve in case of hold-ups along the way – in remote areas consider carrying a spare can of fuel.
- It’s also sensible to have a map, warning triangle, and first aid kit - if they have to take regular medication, make sure you have it with them at all times.
Safe Driving
Drivers should also be aware of these safe winter driving tips:
- Reduce speed in bad weather.
- Increase stopping distances; driving in snow and ice increases stopping distances by 10 times.
- Avoid sudden acceleration and braking.
- Use dipped headlights in poor conditions.
- Take regular breaks; even if they’re running late, they mustn’t ignore the fact that driving in bad weather conditions will increase fatigue.
- Listen to travel bulletins.
Breakdown Procedures
In the event of a breakdown, the following procedures should be followed:
- Make sure that the vehicle will not block access (abandoned vehicles can obstruct emergency services, grit spreaders, and snow ploughs, and prolong traffic hold-ups).
- Where possible remain in the vehicle unless there’s a safety risk.
- Maintain their circulation by moving about.
- Use the engine to keep warm, but ensure the exhaust can disperse.
Weather Preparation
There are also some specific challenges presented by different types of seasonal weather – here’s some advice to help:
- Foggy Conditions
- In foggy conditions, drive very slowly using dipped headlights and rear fog-lamps.
- Use forward fog-lights if visibility is seriously reduced.
- Winter Sun
- Dazzle from winter sun can be dangerous. If it’s below the visor level, use sunglasses.
- Flooded Areas
- If having to drive through floods, stay in first gear and keep the engine speed as high as is safely possible. Avoid stalling.
- Drive slowly and avoid areas where the water is deepest, usually near the kerb.
- Remember to test brakes when past the flooded area before driving at normal speed.
- Slippery Roads
- Be aware that ice forms more easily on hilly and exposed roads, roads under and over bridges and roads shaded by trees and buildings.
- If you hit ice and feel the vehicle start to slide or skid, immediately take your foot off the accelerator, don’t be tempted to brake (which will increase your risk of spinning) and steer gently into the slide.
- To reduce the risk further, accelerate, brake and turn smoothly.
If you have any questions in relation to driving for work, please contact our expert employment law advisors on the 24 Hour Advice Service on 0818 923 923
