National Road Safety Week is a reminder of the core values that drive our operations and the responsibility we bear towards drivers and the public.
Safety-conscious drivers are the backbone of the industry. When I hire a driver, the key thing I look for is whether they have a safety-conscious mind.
Safety-conscious drivers are not just assets or something ‘nice to have’. They’re the backbone of our entire industry.
Their commitment to following safety protocols, adhering to the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) and maintaining a vigilant approach on the road ensures not only their own wellbeing but also the safety of everyone around them.
Investing in driver training and education is crucial. It’s not just about teaching them the HVNL and how to fill out a logbook. It’s about instilling a culture of safety.
Encouraging open communication channels where drivers can report safety concerns without fear of reprisal fosters a proactive safety culture.
The Chain of Responsibility (COR) isn’t a buzzword. It saves lives. COR is often discussed in our industry. We talk about it all the time. But here’s the thing. Its practical significance cannot be overstated. It’s a framework that saves lives.
COR places responsibility not only on drivers but also on managers like me, schedulers, loaders and everyone involved in the supply chain.
As a managing director, I understand the weight of this responsibility.
Ensuring our operations comply with COR regulations isn’t just about avoiding penalties.It’s about safeguarding lives.
Implementing robust systems for fatigue management, vehicle maintenance and load securing is a non-negotiable part of my business. If you prioritise the health of your drivers, they’ll take care of the rest. If you take care of your drivers, they’ll take care of your customers. They’ll also take care of their colleagues, your stock, your loads and your business’s entire reputation.
Your drivers are quite literally the face of your business. At the end of the day, a healthy driver who feels like their company has their back is more alert, focused and capable of making split-second decisions that can prevent accidents.
Therefore, investing in driver wellness programs goes beyond physical health. Mental wellbeing is equally important.
Provide access to counselling services. Give them tools to reduce stress. Promote a healthy work-life balance. Check in from time-to-time. All of this will contribute significantly to overall driver wellness.
My company DSE Transport lives by these themes. Our drivers love working for my team. And that’s because they know that, to us, they are not numbers. They are literally our entire operation.
We invest significantly in driver training and education, instilling a culture of safety and vigilance on the road.
We recognise and reward safe driving practices, reinforcing positive behaviour and dedication to safety.
If there are any other managing directors in the transport industry reading this, take note.
Safety week serves as a poignant reminder of the values that underpin our industry. It isn’t just a marketing ploy. It’s a call to action, to help save lives and make our roads safer for everyone.
- Ryan Howison is the managing director at DSE Transport.