The biggest health and safety risk that a business faces is when their employees are driving company vehicles.
This is according to NZI National Manager of Commercial Motors, Ian Lumley.
“Driving is the main exposure most companies and organisations have in a health and safety context. Your employees’ real exposure (to risk) is out on the road.”
Taylor says the changing work place has reduced a lot of hazards which are harmful to worker well being. While there are still industries which carry high workplace risks like mining, forestry and abseiling, most industries have driving as the number one health and safety risk.
“It’s only when they get out on the road in conjunction with their job that there’s any significant health and safety risk.”
Many companies with fleet vehicles affirm that accidents and insurance claims fall with driver training.
One company looking to help with this issue is Smart Drive. CEO Ryan Balemi says the company provides educational courses about using vehicles in the work place.
With the laws changing all the time, the company tailors their courses accordingly. From small cars to large trucks, they do it all.
“All health and safety managers have to be concerned about driver training if they have any staff driving on business. Whether it’s in a company vehicle or a private vehicle.”
He goes on to say that while some things stay the same, other things change. And, according to an internal survey they conducted, 92% of drivers who take the courses feel more confident at the end of it.
“Health and safety practices are ongoing and constant in today’s world. Re-training always has to take place.”
These training courses have been used by major companies like Trust Power, The Warehouse Group and Plunket.
