Well-maintained vehicles: A cornerstone of fleet safety
A well-maintained fleet and well-trained drivers are essential for improving safety and productivity in the trucking industry.
According to a recent survey by USA publications, Heavy Duty Truck and Work Truck, well-maintained vehicles are the most crucial aspect of safety strategies for fleet managers.
Other key strategies include written policies, strict driver hiring standards, driver training, and creating a culture of safety.
Eugene Herbert, the CEO of MasterDrive, emphasises the importance of ongoing vehicle maintenance. “Regular inspections, avoiding shortcuts and involving drivers in maintenance can significantly impact safety,” he says.
Driver training plays a crucial role in implementing these safety strategies. By providing drivers with the necessary skills and knowledge, fleet managers can ensure that policies and procedures are followed and that a culture of safety is fostered.
MasterDrive includes comprehensive vehicle inspections in their training programmes. This empowers drivers to identify potential maintenance issues before they become problems, reducing the risk of breakdowns and accidents.
Written policies and procedures are essential for maintaining a safe and efficient fleet. However, these policies must be communicated effectively to drivers through training programmes.
Strict driver hiring standards are also crucial for fleet safety. Safety-related training should be a priority when onboarding new drivers.
By prioritising driver training, fleet managers can create a culture of safety within their organisations. This involves leading by example and providing drivers with the tools and resources they need to drive safely.
The survey demonstrates that driver training is fundamental to effective fleet safety strategies. By investing in driver training, fleet managers can improve safety, reduce costs and enhance their organisation’s reputation.
Source: MotorPress
