Whether you’re a delivery driver, a salesperson, or a professional driver, following safety practices is important to protect yourself and others on the road. Outlined below are some tips to promote driving safety while working. 

• Vehicle Maintenance: Ensure that the vehicle is properly maintained. Regularly check the brakes, tires, lights, and fluid levels. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to prevent breakdowns or malfunctions. 
• Defensive Driving: Practice defensive driving techniques to anticipate potential hazards. Ensure to always maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, obey local traffic laws, and be aware of your surroundings. Expect the unexpected and be prepared to react accordingly. 
• Time Management: Allow more than enough time for your journeys, considering traffic conditions and any unforeseen delays. Avoid rushing or driving aggressively to meet deadlines. Plan your schedule with buffer time to ensure a stress-free and safe journey. 
• Adverse Weather Conditions: Exercise caution when driving in adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, or fog. Reduce your speed, increase your following distance, and use headlights or fog lights when necessary. Be aware that road conditions may be compromised and adjust your driving accordingly. 
• Rest and Fatigue Management: Get enough rest before long drives. Being tired can impair your judgment, reflexes, and attention, significantly increasing the risk of road accidents. Take regular breaks during extended journeys to stay alert and refreshed. 

• Avoid Distractions: Eliminate distractions while driving. Keep your focus on the road and avoid using your mobile phone, eating, or engaging in other distracting activities. If required, pull over to a safe location before attending to any phone calls or other activities. 
• Plan Your Route: Plan your route in advance to minimise last-minute decisions and reduce the chances of getting lost. Utilise vehicle navigation systems or maps to familiarise yourself with the roads and any potential road works, construction or traffic delays. 
• Seat Belt Usage: Always wear your seat belt and ensure all passengers do the same. Seat belts are your primary defence in the event of a crash and can save lives. 
• Ergonomic Considerations: Adjust your seat, steering wheel, and mirrors for optimal safety, comfort and visibility. Maintaining a proper driving posture can reduce fatigue and enhance your ability to respond to road conditions effectively. 
• Training: Stay updated with relevant driving techniques and safety practices. Continuous learning can help you adapt to new road regulations and improve your driving competence. 

Staying safe while driving for work safety is not only about protecting yourself but also about safeguarding the well-being of others on the road. By following these guidelines, you can contribute to a safer road and minimise the risk of accidents while doing your job. 

iProtectU allows a user to create, edit and document a risk assessment regarding driving for work. 

iProtectU brings together the key resources and knowledge of three companies specialising in EHS software development, health and safety, business intelligence and data analytics. 

Our vision is to provide fully integrated, cost effective and simple to use health and safety software tools that enable our clients to engage their entire team.