As a UK employer, the responsibility for managing road risk falls to you. Driving requires the full attention of the driver. Hazards can arise at any time and vehicles can travel considerable distance in a very short timeframe. A moment’s distraction can have fatal consequences. Anything that draws the driver’s attention away from the road - sight, sound, thought or physical action - is a distraction.
Preventing driver distraction can make a workforce safer and needs to be better reflected in company policy by introduction of best practices initiatives, effective driver education and data monitoring.
Distraction is a factor in a significant number of crashes with modern life placing heavy demands on at-work drivers, encouraging multi-tasking despite the risk.
What are the distractions?
Mobile phones - both hand-held or hands-free. Studies confirm drivers experience 'visual tunnelling' that limits the field of vision when using a mobile phone whilst driving. Research has shown that it can take drivers about 30 seconds to regain full attention after interacting with a phone.
In-vehicle technology - most fleets use in cab tech. But there are limited instructions issued to drivers not to adjust, or communicate using, whilst driving. Most drivers are not able to divide their attention without deterioration in driving performance.
Eating and drinking - these can be a cognitive and physical distraction for drivers. Studies suggest they significantly decrease driver reaction times; those that eat and drink at the wheel are twice as likely to be involved in a crash.
Music - listening at the wheel slows driver’s reaction times and encourages a more aggressive driving style, whilst changing radio stations or adjusting the volume is a physical distraction.
Smoking - it is illegal to smoke when driving for work; finding and igniting is a mental and physical distraction and requires the driver to remove a hand from the wheel and removes the focus that is not on the road.
Passengers - it is advised to keep interaction with passengers to a minimum, avoiding in-depth conversation or heated debates.
Grooming - this includes applying make-up, brushing hair, shaving.
Prevention
- Educate on key risks – phones, sat nav
- Hold appropriate policies - ban use of all mobiles when driving
- Support drivers - time for lunch break over eating at the wheel
- Enforce best practice - spot check for ash/food debris
- Communicate policies to manage expectations – no calls at wheel
- Measure engagement with road safety messages and staff surveys
Questions? Email [email protected] for advice tailored to your company, within 10 working days