$W[KPI )WKFG .[VZ 'WTQRG
&TKXGT UWRRQTV +P ECD ECOGTCU JGNR ƃGGV OCPCIGTU VQ UWRRQTV VJGKT UVCHH D[ FGVGTOKPKPI WPWUWCN FTKXKPI DGJCXKQWT TELEMATICS/CAMERA SYSTEMS It’s hard to talk about commercial vehicles without mentioning the UK’s current shortage of HGV drivers. The government has taken measures to speed up the driver licensing process and agreed to grant visas to 5,000 EU truck drivers, but recruiting new additions to the workforce is not easy. For overseas drivers, working conditions and pay need to be significantly better than those at home. Fleet managers also need to attract those who are considering a new career or a return to a job they previously left.
SUPPORTING DRIVERS Attracting the best talent is about more than filling a short term-gap, however. A team of well-supported, skilled drivers will ensure a fleet operates safely and productively, reducing insurance costs and improving the long-term health of the haulage company that employs them.
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This support needs to include provisions for mental health and wellbeing. And this need is becoming ever more pressing, with 30% of selfreported work-related illness in the transport and logistics industry due to stress, depression and anxiety. If those behind the wheel are experiencing such issues, it’s not hard to see how incidents can occur, such as accidentally jumping a red light or momentarily drifting off at the wheel.
PROACTIVE APPROACH Fleet managers can use technology to take a more proactive approach to driver behaviour. This includes getting a better indication of what is typical for any particular driver and being able to tell when something isn’t quite right. For example, you could have a 20-year veteran driver with an impeccable record who suddenly begins to demonstrate road rage. This is where the latest generation of video telematics can help fleet managers to understand patterns around
A COMMERCIAL MOTOR SUPPLEMENT
what is usual (and unusual) for drivers, because the manager has the option to review video clips of any incidents in the last six months. This might reveal, for example, that the driver was involved in a near-collision at the hands of another road user. While the incident was flagged and discussed at the time, it may have resulted in lasting trauma. Camera and telematics systems that offer connected technology can also help fleet managers to understand the impact of external factors on their drivers, such as heavy traffic, road work or weather conditions. They can also integrate with data such as staff rotas – for example, was that driver really speeding for no reason or were they under pressure to meet a quota during a particularly short-staffed period?
DIALOGUE AND DISCUSSION Pinpointing the issue is only half the challenge. To make a difference, organisations must create a space for dialogue and discussion. Coaching sessions are one way for managers and drivers to address the issue. While the needs of every individual will always be unique, by taking some of these steps, fleet managers can remove the stigma and work towards a more open, inclusive environment that supports drivers.
O For more information call 01908 880733, email intlchannelsales@lytx.com or visit lytx.com/surfsight
