Driving is, without doubt, the most dangerous work-related activity performed by most people. Unfortunately many organisations do not see it as a major hazard. For example, recent figures in Northern Ireland estimate that a third (33%) of road deaths involve people driving for work. Indeed, RoSPA calculates that, after deep sea fishing and coal mining, driving 25,000 miles a year on business is the most life-threatening activity we undertake - more dangerous than working in construction - four times as many people are killed while driving for work than any other industrial accident. The law requires that all employers conduct Risk Assessments in their workplace, taking into account the hazards present and the controls in place. The risk assessment process can be relatively simple – but still many employers fail to conduct an appropriate assessment and thereby leave their organisation open to the threat of litigation and the potential for injuries to staff Many company and private vehicles will be involved in a road accident within the next 12 months and repairs can be extremely expensive, not to mention the disruption of service due to vehicles being off the road, the cost of replacement vehicles and the cost of litigation and claims associated with accidents. There is a clear economic argument which can be applied to managing the risks associated with workplace driving and ensuring drivers are educated in better driving practices. Some of the positive benefits are:
- A reduction in insurance premiums at a time when premiums are rising
- Fuel consumption improvements of between 7 and 10%
- Reductions of at least 5% in wear and tear on tyres, brakes and clutches etc.
- Improved vehicle value when it comes to vehicle disposal
- Fewer accidents
- Less need for investigation
- Less lost time
- Improved public image
- Protection from prosecution and litigation
With the imminent threat of adverse weather companies should make provisions and provide information to their drivers on how to deal with the situation. TOP 10 TIPS FOR WINTER DRIVING Taking a number of simple precautions can ensure safety on Irish roads during winter. Don’t get caught out if severe weather hits, make the necessary checks on your vehicle now. There are a number of simple precautions the Road Safety Authority advises for driving over the winter months: 1. Check your tyres…they are your only contact with the road. Tyres should be at least the minimum legal thread depth of 1.6mm but need to be changed before they get this worn. 3mm is a good guide for minimum depth, even if it’s not a legal requirement its makes good sense. Tyres need to be to the correct tyre pressure to give the motorist the best chance in extreme conditions. 2. Use your lights. As we come into the winter months, motorists are advised to use dipped head lights during the day so you are easily seen. Headlights and taillights should be in working order. If you can be seen you are less likely to be involved in an accident. 3. Understand your brakes. Check your car manual and find out if your vehicle has safety assist technology such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS). Learn how these technologies can assist your driving in harsh weather conditions. 4. Safe Distance. It takes longer to stop a car during the winter weather so slow down and allow extra distance between you and the car in front. 5. Make sure you can clearly see. All too often motorists do not de-fog or de-ice windows and mirrors which can compromise visibility. This winter ensure windows and mirrors are clear, and carry a de-icer and screen scraper. Do not use boiling water as this can crack the windscreen. 6. Beware of “Black Ice”. Black Ice is one of winter’s biggest hazards as it is difficult to see. Watch out for sheltered/ shaded areas on roads, under trees and near high walls. 7. Be prepared. During these winter months it is advised that motorists carry a number of essentials in the boot of their car.
- High visibility vest
- Spare fuel
- Appropriate footwear in case you need to leave your vehicle e.g. boots
- A hazard warning triangle
- Spare wheel
- Tow Rope
- A shovel
- De-icing equipment (for glass and door locks)
- Spare bulbs
- First aid kit
- A fire extinguisher
- A working torch
- A car blanket, additional clothing & some food and water
8. In the event of a breakdown. Drivers need to ensure their vehicle is well in off the road so as not to obstruct other vehicles. The driver should also put on their hazard warning lights. If the vehicle breaks down on the motorway pull in as far as you can, alerting traffic behind you with hazard lights. The driver should leave their vehicle, get behind the barrier (on the embankment) and call the Gardaí, on their mobile phone or roadside telephone. Keep up to date. Listen to local weather and traffic reports. Pay heed to the weather warnings alerting drivers of unsafe and dangerous driving conditions. If the weather is poor don’t make unnecessary journeys. Home working, conference calls, Skype meetings are all real alternatives which can be looked into to reduce risk.
