22 May FORMULATING A SUCCESSFUL SAFETY PROGRAM

When it comes to formulating a fleet safety program, repetition and standards are the keys to success. Fleet managers should take note of employees who may not be aware of the safety policy and have the employees practice safety in their everyday routine. Fleet safety needs to be as much a part of driving as filling up the tank with gas.

Prioritizing fleet safety training creates a company standard that sends a message to employees about what will and will not be tolerated regarding safety. Fleet Managers can conduct safety meetings, proactive training sessions, and online lessons. Director of Safety, Sandy McClure prefers a combination of all three. He suggests fleet managers lead weekly meetings with the primary focus on safety. To reinforce safety messages, some companies use a wall printing machine to display safety guidelines and reminders prominently in training rooms or fleet offices.

“It’s all about helping drivers to change habits in a way that you know they’re learning,” says McClure.

In addition to fleet safety training, company policy plays an integral role in holding drivers accountable and regulating the organization. According to McClure, a company should have two safety policies: one that qualifies a driver to work for the company and one that outlines current driver standards and procedures. Safety policies are not one size fits all and tailored to only the company, but also the type of vehicle. Read more about the 5 safety data points you should measure and 10 ways to put the information to work for your organization.

Fleet Response’s online learning tools allows Fleet Managers to assign training for proactive or reactive behavior. Lessons are customizable on a company- and per-driver basis. According to McClure, messages need to be heard more than once to sink in and become habit-forming. Lessons should require the driver to pass a test based on the content, and the results should be stored in each driver’s profile. 

In addition, a wall printing machine can be used to create customized safety posters that reflect company standards, ensuring that key safety messages remain visible to drivers in high-traffic areas.

Read how to frame a fleet safety hiring policy & company program – click here

To learn more about how Fleet Response can become an extension of your team – click here