Fleet Management Policy
This Policy Statement is supported by Procedure OMA-MANP-17 – Fleet Management Policy and Procedures.
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. In respect of security, it is intended to raise awareness, security and vigilance within the organisation.
This Policy will form part of any induction training for new drivers.
General
Only OMC employees or designated personnel are authorised to drive OMC vehicles.
Only OMC employees or designated personnel are authorised to be passengers in OMC vehicles.
Whilst off shift, vehicles will be parked at OMC premises or where authorised at the home of the driver.
Drivers to be aware of the possibility of hoax enforcement officers.
Driver Responsibilities
Drivers are responsible for ensuring:
That they are fit and able to drive the allocated vehicle safely
That they drive with due care, within the law, and with regard to other 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 vehicles and keys are secured.
Vehicle engines are not left running at any time when unoccupied
That they report any defects to the Fleet Manager/Deputy
That they report any road-related driving infractions to the Fleet Manager
That theft of or from the vehicle or suspicious activity with regard to the vehicle is immediately reported to management and the police.
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 the ability to drive.
That they plan their routes to minimise interaction with vulnerable road users
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.
Speed limits
At all times drivers will drive within the legal speed limit applicable to the road on which he is driving. In addition, he 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.
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 and will follow the requirements of the Highway Code 2022.
Routing and scheduling
Scheduling
Most of the work including driving time will be scheduled between the hours of 22:00and 06:00 minimising the possible interaction with vulnerable road users.
Routing
Drivers will use their local knowledge to plan their routes to avoid areas where vulnerable road users are prevalent such as schools, colleges etc. and wherever possible avoid areas with high concentrations of other road users (Built-up areas, high streets etc.)
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 Fleet Manager or a Director to arrange recovery
A full report is to be made to the office at the earliest opportunity
Tyre Management
Tyre usage will be monitored to ensure the correct selection of tyres is made. Wear, damage and age of tyres will be monitored at regular maintenance intervals and also at the daily walkaround checks.
Maintenance
Maintenance of vehicles will be undertaken in accordance with Procedure OMA-MANP-17
Load safety for vans
Load safety for vans is covered in procedure OMA-MANP-17 and risk assessment DRI-OMA-01 which is also held in the drivers handbook.
In-vehicle technology
The use of in-vehicle technology is covered by procedure OMA-MANP-17 and risk assessment DRI-OMA-01 which is also held in the drivers handbook.
Signed:
G. O’Mahoney - Managing Director
31/05/2024 - Revision 6
