Drivers Of Company Vehicles Guidance

INTRODUCTION

This guidance refers to company vehicles and vehicles (i.e. cars, vans, minibuses and 4x4 vehicles) driven in the course of employment by employees which are not subject to the restrictions of drivers hours of work, as stated in Transport regulations.

Available statistical evidence shows that the majority of accidents involving motor vehicles are attributed to human error. A small proportion of accidents are due to other factors, such as mechanical failure, bad road/weather conditions or worn tyres.

RECOMMENDED PRECAUTIONS

Employers must ensure that drivers of their vehicles hold the appropriate category of licence and make arrangements for the document to be checked at least once every year to ensure it is valid.
It is important that drivers read and understand the drivers handbook, particularly when taking delivery of the vehicle.
There must be a system whereby company drivers are required to report any medical condition which may affect their driving ability and licence, such as heart condition or epilepsy.
Drivers should be aware that certain medication may impair their driving ability such as some antihistamines (used to control the effects of hay fever). Additionally, some proprietary cold cure manufacturers advise the driver not to drive whilst taking the remedy.
The employer should give the driver specific guidance in respect of alcohol taken during working hours, based on the principle that even small amounts of alcohol can impair judgement and concentration. The best policy is 'do not drink and drive'.
The employer should provide guidance on acceptable daily driving hours. For example, the equivalent requirements for statutory drivers hours of work, for certain classes of goods and commercial vehicles on public roads, are a maximum daily driving time of 9 hours, with no more than 41/2 hours continuous driving including a 3/4 hour break. For drivers of vehicles on public roads, it is advisable to stop at least every 2 hours for a short break.

MAINTENANCE

All vehicles must be serviced and maintained in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.
All drivers should carry out regular checks e.g. on tyres, windscreen, lights, brake fluid, washer bottle levels and other safety-related equipment.
A system for fault reporting and rectification must be established.

DRIVING, BREAKDOWN AND EMERGENCIES

It is recommended that all drivers be informed that driving in accordance with the Highway Code is the minimum standard expected.

Guidance given in the Highway Code should also be followed in the event of breakdown and accidents.

TRAINING

Employers must take into account the employee's driving capabilities at the start of work. Passing the driving test, whilst permitting the use of vehicles on the public highway, gives no guarantee as to the competence under all conditions e.g. motorway driving or in wet, windy, icy, foggy or snowy conditions.
Additional or refresher driver training is strongly recommended as bad driving habits, styles and techniques may have developed over a period of time.
Evidence shows that certain 'defensive driving courses' have proven to be effective in raising driver awareness of hazards and precautions, reducing accidents and associated costs.