| Hit the Road | Motor Vehicle Safety on the Job |
Between 2003 and 2012, there were 18,716 work-related motor vehicle crash fatalities in the U.S. Implementing motor vehicle safety practices for workers who drive on-the-job can help lessen accident risks and keep employees safe. Consider taking the following steps:
Show commitment to road safety. Company leaders should have open communication with employees about driving practices. Create safe driving policies. Regularly collect and review information on road safety performance. Investigate accidents and determine if policy changes are needed.
Implement policies which promote road safety. Assess the hazards that your workers face when driving and take steps to eliminate or reduce those hazards. Review driving times, routes, and travel schedules to see if safer alternatives are available. Implement written policies and procedures that require seat belts and prevent distracted, drowsy or impaired driving.
Maximize road safety through driver selection, training and evaluation. Review DMV records for employees prior to assigning them to a job which requires driving. Provide training that is specific to the vehicle that will be operated. Perform behind-the-wheel evaluations of worker driving and re-evaluate on a regular schedule. Provide periodic refresher training to drivers.
Ensure workers drive safe and well-maintained vehicles. Conduct pre-and post-trip vehicle inspections. Ensure the vehicles are maintained per the manufacturers’ specifications.Although motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among workers in the U.S., a comprehensive Motor Vehicle Safety Program can help promote safe driving and help workers stay safe.
For additional information and a helpful Motor Vehicle Safety Program checklist, see the NIOSH publication Preventing Work-Related Motor Vehicle Crashes.
