DRIVING STANDARDS POLICY
This Policy is to be issued to all drivers who will be briefed on the contents. It will also be displayed in O’Mahony offices.
This Policy will form part of any induction training for new drivers
Driver Responsibilities
Drivers are responsible for ensuring:
That they are fit and able to drive the allocated vehicle safely
That they drive in accordance with the Highway Code adhering to traffic signs, speed limits and road markings.
That they wear seat belts and ensure passengers also wear seat belts at all times.
That they are not distracted whilst driving by eating, drinking or smoking.
That they will drive with due regard to the road and weather conditions.
That they observe fuel efficient practices for example abiding by the engine idling policy.
That they drive with due care, within the law, and with regard to other road users particularly vulnerable road users.
That they are courteous and do not put themselves in confrontational situations.
That the vehicles that they drive are in a roadworthy condition and has a current MOT (Where applicable)
That they undertake a circle check and records the results at the start of each shift.
That they report any defects to the Fleet Manager.
That they report any road-related driving infractions to the Fleet Manager
That they report all road-related fines including Fixed Penalties and Penalty Charge Notices to the Transport Manager.
That they ensure the security of their vehicle and equipment and also ensure the safety of third parties.
That in the event of an accident, they report this to the Fleet Manager and assists in any investigation which may result from the accident.
That they inform the Fleet Manager of any health issues which may adversely affect their ability to drive.
That they have access to (https://www.highwaycodeuk.co.uk), read and understood the Highway Code.
Safe Driving
All drivers are to undertake eye tests every 6 months and must wear any corrective items (glasses, contact lenses) required to correct vision.
Allow extra journey time where weather conditions or traffic dictate.
Stay calm and relaxed whilst driving and try to avoid situations which could lead to stress or road rage.
Drivers are not to attempt driving if they have symptoms of an illness or have an injury which will impair their ability to drive. This may include stress, depression, anxiety or mental health problems.
Speed limits
At all times drivers will drive within the legal speed limit applicable to the road on which he/she is driving. In addition, he/she must give regard to the weather and condition of the road which may mean driving at a speed which is lower than the legal limit.
In-vehicle technology
The use of Mobile Phones whilst driving is prohibited. Whilst not illegal, the company discourages the use of hands-free phones whilst in motion as this can cause distraction.
Satellite Navigation units may be used, but they must not be set, adjusted or otherwise physically interacted with whilst the vehicle is in motion.
Drugs and alcohol
Driving whilst under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal and is strictly prohibited. Employees may be subject to random Drug & Alcohol tests.
Be aware that some prescription and off-the shelf drugs can adversely affect the ability to drive. Check with your doctor or pharmacist and check the label on off-the-shelf medication.
Should a driver be suspected of driving, or attempting to drive whilst under the influence of drugs or alcohol, the following actions will be taken:
The employee will be immediately removed from driving duties
The employee will be subject to a drugs & alcohol test
Should the alcohol test prove to be positive, then the appropriate disciplinary action will be taken.
The same process will apply after involvement in a road traffic accident, incident or near miss.
Driver Fatigue
Ensure that you are not fatigued whilst driving. This may be particularly an issue during the early hours of the morning. Excessive hours must not be worked.
Vulnerable Road Users
All drivers will undertake a Safe Urban Driving course. They will remain vigilant when driving in situations where vulnerable road users may be at risk.
Drivers will at all times observe the fact that cycle lanes are for cyclists and will not park, or drive within the boundaries of any cycle lane.
Breakdowns and collisions
In the event of a breakdown or collision, the driver will endeavour, if possible, to guide the vehicle to a safe position. Hazard warning lights and amber lights (where fitted) are to be activated. Take care when exiting the vehicle, particularly if in a vulnerable position.
Where a collision has occurred, if safe, check on the condition of the occupants of the other vehicle. Take note of the events leading to the accident and, if safe, take photographs of the scene. Co-operate fully with the authorities where they attend.
Call the Transport Manager or a Director to arrange recovery
A full report is to be made to the office at the earliest opportunity
Vehicle security and safety
Drivers will ensure that their vehicles are secured from interference from others. This will include:
Ensuring that rear doors and side doors are locked at all times even whilst driving.
Making sure that the engine is switched off and keys removed when the vehicle is unoccupied.
Ensuring that keys are stored in a safe place whilst the vehicle is not in use.
When loading or unloading consideration must be given to the interface with others. The Method Statement for the job will normally define some requirements but the following should be considered when loading or unloading where others are present:
Endeavour to load/unload in an area where third party access is restricted
If necessary barrier of the area with hazard tape/cones or road barriers.
Be aware of other people and vehicles.
This policy is to be issued to all OMC drivers who are required to make a declaration that they have access to, read and understood this policy and have access to, read & understood the Highway Code.
Signed:
G. O’Mahoney - Managing Director
31/05/2024 - Revision 5
