Is Your Mobile Workforce Driving Up Your Exposure?
This session at PRIMA 2015 addressed the various risks related to having a mobile workforce and explored strategies for accident prevention. Speakers included Michael Fann, ARM-P, TML Risk Management Pool; Matt McDonough, CSP, Safety National.
Due to technological advancements, the workforce is now more mobile than ever, but these devices can be distractions and can drive up your exposure. The leading cause of workplace fatalities is roadway incidents, followed by violence, slips, trips and falls, and contact with objects. In 2013, 1,099 people lost their lives to fleet incidents. Distracted Driving has caused 421,000 injuries and 3,328 deaths in 2012, and 424,000 injured and 3,154 deaths for 2013.
Distracted driving is a major risk that employers with a mobile workforce face today. Distractions can range from cell phones to street signs.
Here are four solutions to keep your mobile workforce safe and to eliminate distracted driving:
Driver Education/Training
There are several programs available designed to help minimize these risks through an online simulation. Courses like these address distracted driving awareness and safe driving techniques.
Telematics
Telematics is a crash resistant black box installed in the vehicle that records information during driving. Some have a camera that is turned on when triggered by a hard break. This information can be very useful for employers who cannot ride with the drivers all the time.
1-800 Driver Programs
Everyone has seen these “How’s my Driving” signs are the back or side of vehicles. When a valid call is made, the information is useful to employers regarding how their drivers are performing. Employers can implement training based on this information if necessary.
Strong Written Fleet Program
The purpose of a fleet program is to take the proper steps to prevent loss of life, injury, or property damage for all employees and general public. For example, businesses will put a cell phone/electronics policy in place so that employees have rules to follow that prevent distracted driving.