4.16 Company Car Guidance |
SCOPE OF THIS CHAPTER
This guidance is for all staff with regards to safely operating a company vehicle.
Also see:
This is a new chapter for September 2010
Contents
1. Driving Hours
Vehicle operators should ensure that they are not driving for excessive hours and thereby increasing the risk crash to themselves and other road users through fatigue or inattention.
Non-LGV drivers have no real restrictions on the number of hours that are driven and must exercise a responsible attitude when operating company vehicles.
If you feel that you are unable to drive due to tiredness because of the number of hours you have worked or driven you should contact your line manager who will advise you of the best course of action to take.
2. Scheduling
Do not try to be over ambitious with your schedule, build in time for roadwork's, weather, rest breaks etc.
Try to arrange schedules to minimise travel towards the end of the week when you will be tired and the traffic is generally heavier and consider overnight stops to break up your overall mileage.
If you feel you are being asked to meet a schedule, which is putting you and other road users at risk, you must contact your line manager who will advise you of the best course of action to take.
3. Car Hire
Clifford House have several Pool Cars, which are available to hire. The hiring of pool car must be authorised by Fleet Administration. Times when you are likely to seek authorisation for the use of a hire vehicle:
- Company car off the road for major servicing greater than 24 hours
- After a crash and the company vehicle being deemed unsafe or un-roadworthy (when a courtesy car has not been provided)
- Vehicle required for business reasons where the use of the allocated company vehicle is not practical.
When utilising hired vehicles or Pool cars company drivers must always conduct an inspection of the vehicle as in a normal daily check scenario.
The vehicle will require a full 'set up' to allow you to drive it safely to include:
- Seat height, rake and position
- Mirror adjustment
- Steering wheel adjustment
- Familiarity with all controls including gears and handbrake
- Familiarity with dashboard warnings
- Familiarity with the views available from the vehicle cockpit
Failure to carry out these procedures will render the operator 'at risk' when operating the hired vehicle. Drivers should also make a thorough check of the vehicle on completion of use.
4. Weather Conditions
Vehicle operators should use facilities such as local broadcasts and if possible any Internet weather sites to warn them of impending weather conditions that may affect journey times.
Do not try to drive if the Roadside Agencies are advising you not to. Contact your line manager for advice.
Be aware of your own level of experience and competence in operating a vehicle in adverse weather conditions.
Be aware of the limitations and condition of your vehicle when travelling in adverse weather conditions, any fault can become a serious risk if the weather is or becomes severe.
5. Breakdown and Punctures
Also see the Highway Code
If you are involved in a breakdown use the information and processes in the Highway Code Rule 248 (and 249 - 251 for breakdowns on the motorway).
The company has breakdown cover for all company vehicles and this service can be contacted on the number in your vehicle information card.
Do not put you, any passengers or the vehicle at risk and follow the advice given in the Highway Code Rule 248 (and 249 - 251 for breakdowns on the motorway).
When calling out the emergency services always ask for the name of the attending person, what the vehicle will look like if a private service has been called and an estimated time of arrival.
If you incur a windscreen breakage follow the breakdown procedure and use the information in your crash pack. Do not attempt to remove the damaged screen, await the emergency services.
If you incur a puncture follow the procedure below for controlling the vehicle and then adopt normal breakdown procedures, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REPLACE THE PUNCTURE AT THE ROADSIDE call the emergency services:
- Do not brake hard unless the road configuration or traffic situation demands it
- Move the vehicle gently off the main carriageway if you can
- Bring the vehicle to a slow stop under control
- Exit the vehicle to the nearside
- Call the Police if your stopped vehicle constitutes a hazard to other road users
If you have broken down, especially on the motorway get out of your vehicle with the YP (if in a settled frame of mind) and lock the doors other than the nearside door and wait for the emergency services near your vehicle, preferably on an embankment away from traffic. When the services or police arrive get back into your vehicle and lock the door, lower the window 1-2 inches and ask to see the attending persons identification and check the details you will have asked for when calling them out if a private service. Do not open the door until you are satisfied with the identity of the attending person.
6. Crash Procedure
Also see the Highway Code
If you are involved in a crash you must under no circumstances admit liability or blame at the scene and conduct yourself within the requirements of the Highway Code Rule 257.
Where able to do so you should:
Use the crash pack to:
- Record the names and addresses of the parties involved, together with the details of the other parties' insurers name and address
- Record the names and addresses of any witnesses to the incident
You should give to anyone having reasonable grounds for requiring the information:
- Your own name
- Clifford House head office address
- Registration number of the company vehicle
Call the Police to the scene if:
- You or anyone else has been injured
- Damaged vehicles constitute a road hazard
- Traffic signs, road markings etc have been damaged
You must report the crash to the Police within 24 hours. Also the On Call Manager must be informed on: 07811 181029
Record the following information about the crash scene using your forms and the disposable camera from the crash pack:
- Time and date
- Street names and approximate widths
- Road layout, types of road, directions of vehicles
- Vehicles position at impact and relevant road signs
- Condition of the road surface, weather conditions, street and vehicle lighting in use at the time
Do not attempt to drive the company vehicle if there is any doubt as to the roadworthiness or safety of the vehicle.
If you are in a crash involving hazardous goods you must follow the procedure outlined in Highway Code Rule 257 and in particular those given below:
- Switch off all engines of vehicles involved or close to the crash
- Do Not Smoke
- Keep well away from the vehicles involved, preferably up-wind
- Do not be tempted to rescue or assist casualties
- Call the emergency services and give as much information as possible about the labels and markings on the vehicle(s) involved
- Do not use a mobile telephone near the crash
You must then contact Fleet Administration.
7. Management and Support of Service Users Behaviour
Given the nature of the services Clifford House provides to vulnerable children and adults, on occasions staff may find themselves faced with situations where service users present challenging behaviour prior to or during a journey in a vehicle.
It is imperative that the driver does not begin a journey in a circumstance where one or more service users have become angry, agitated or upset.
Also if during a vehicle journey any service users become similarly agitated, angry or upset it is essential that the driver in charge of the vehicle does not compromise the safety of their passengers (and self) by continuing to travel.
Where the driver is of the view that a situation is developing or escalating that could compromise the safety of the passengers (and other road users), they should stop and park the vehicle at the most appropriate and safe place to do so until the situation is under control.
The journey should only recommence once the driver feels confident that the situation is under control and it is safe to continue.
Please also have regard for the Clifford House Behaviour Management Policy (including PRICE Training's values & principles) alongside the individual risk assessments for each service user when considering best practice in relation to managing behaviour whilst travelling.
8. Vandalism
If the company vehicle has suffered vandalism you must contact Fleet Administration immediately it is discovered.
Examples of Vandalism are:
- Aerial broken off or bent
- Mirrors broken off or glass smashed
- Wheels and or tyres damaged
- Wheel trims missing
- Intentional scratches (i.e. with a key) to the vehicle
- Attempt at entry and resulting window, lock damage
Establish if there is CCTV coverage of the area you have parked in and if so inform them of the vandalism and ask for contact details for possible reviewing of any video evidence.
9. Theft of Vehicle
Most vehicle thefts are opportunist and can be avoided by simple precautions:
- Do not park in remote or dubious areas
- Do not leave articles on view in the vehicle that may attract a thief
- Transfer items to the boot before arriving at the parking site; there are those who watch for this
- Park in lit areas preferably with CCTV or attendant coverage
If the company vehicle is stolen inform the Police and Fleet Administration immediately and note the Crime Incident Number for the report.
If you see someone attempting to steal the company vehicle DO NOT ATTEMPT TO STOP THEM, call the police immediately. Also the On Call Manager must be informed on 07811 181029.
10. Smoking
Smoking is prohibited in company vehicles due to the following:
- Distraction and losing control whilst lighting a cigarette
- Intimidation of steering competence due to holding a lighted cigarette
- The dangers of falling ash
- General impairment by smoke to the condition of the vehicle
- Damage due to cigarette burns to the vehicle's upholstery
- Passive smoking effects on passengers
Vehicle operators who smoke in company vehicles may be required to make good any damage or valeting costs incurred and will be subject to disciplinary action.
11. Parking and Manoeuvring
Parking fines will remain the responsibility of the driver and the cost of such fines may be recouped from the driver responsible for the offence.
Parking the vehicle is a risk in itself and vehicle operators should exercise extreme care when carrying out such manoeuvres:
- Make sure you are capable of the manoeuvre
- Make sure the space is:
- Legal for your use
- Big enough for your vehicle
- Not obstructing another vehicle or walkway
- Does not contain debris or glass etc
- Secure for you and the vehicle
- Conduct the manoeuvre slowly with full observation
- Consider reversing in and the access you require to your vehicle
- Do not be afraid to ask for assistance - do not guess!
Think about when you are going return and the suitability of the space in terms of darkness, other road users etc.
12. Towing
The company forbid the use of company vehicles for towing either as part of the tasking or for leisure purposes.
13. Seatbelts and Head Restraints and Child Seats
Also see the Highway Code
Rule 75 - 78 of the Highway Code gives specific guidance on the law regarding seatbelts and their use and exemptions.
Drivers of all company vehicles are to wear seatbelts at all times when operating company vehicles and are responsible for the application of the law regarding the wearing of seatbelts for any authorised passengers.
Passengers who are not exempt and refuse to comply with the driver's instructions regarding the wearing of seatbelts should not be transported.
Vehicle operators must ensure that the available head restraints are correctly adjusted to afford the maximum protection:
When the head is rested on the restraint:
- The centre part of the head restraint should be at least the height of the eyes or the top of the ears
- The restraint should be as close to the back of the head as is comfortable
It is also now law that any child under 135cm (4ft 5") will have to have an appropriate safety seat; this can be determined by the child's weight and height. Please ensure that all children under the stated height restriction wear the appropriate safety restraints.
14. Loading
The company vehicle must not be overloaded at any time.
Rule 74 of the Highway Code gives guidance as to the loading of vehicles.
If you require further information as to the safe loading specifications or maximum seating capacity for your company vehicle contact Fleet Administration or look in the Handbook of the vehicle.
Vehicle operators must consider the potential of stowed items such as tools, computers, sports equipment, shopping, etc to become projectiles in the event of a collision impact and ensure that such items are adequately stowed and restrained.
15. Carriage of Goods
Vehicle operators may be required to make good any damage caused by unprotected or insecure goods.
16. Fire Extinguishers and their use
Vehicle operators should not carry fire extinguishers in the company vehicle unless the following criteria has been met:
- There is a task requirement for this provision
- The extinguisher has been installed by a professional company
- The extinguisher is subject to logged serviceability checks by a trained responsible person
- The vehicle operator has been trained in its use
If these criteria have been satisfied vehicle operators should not use the extinguisher unless the company vehicle or its contents are at risk and not in any other circumstances.
17. Vehicle Information
17.1 Correct use of Vehicle
Vehicle operators are forbidden to use the company vehicle for activities, which are unauthorised. A full list of these restrictions is available from Fleet Administration.
The restrictions would typically include off-roading, use of vehicle as a taxi, towing other vehicles, motor-sport or any use for which the vehicle was not intended.
17.2 Cleanliness
The vehicle operator is responsible for the cleanliness of both the interior and exterior of the company vehicle and the vehicle must be maintained in a pristine condition at all times.
This can be done at any resource and if the resource does not have adequate facilities staff may use a hand operated jet wash only and this can be financed using the relevant claim process through Finance Department.
Fleet Administration may inspect company vehicles at any time and where the vehicle is found to be below the required standard vehicle operators will be informed and a report made of the situation.
Repeated failings in this area may result in the driver reimbursing the company for the required valeting services.17.3 Security and Contents
The vehicle operator is responsible for the security of the company vehicle and its contents.
The selection of parking sites should ensure that the area and situation do not pose an obvious risk to the vehicle or its contents, such as back street parking where the vehicle cannot be generally observed.
All items of value and company equipment must be hidden from view and the vehicle locked whenever the operator leaves the vehicle.
Do not leave the radio, mobile telephones or other attractive equipment in the vehicle whilst unattended including overnight.
Care must be taken when the vehicle is left at parking sites to ensure that the vehicle is parked correctly and not obstructing others.
17.4 Safety Kits
All company vehicles are supplied with a safety kit to the following specification:
- Hi Vis (Tabard) Vest
- Torch & Batteries
- Warning Triangle
- First Aid Kit
This kit (excluding the Hi Vis Vest) should be located in the boot of the vehicle on the nearside to avoid obscuring offside lights when accessing. The Hi Vis vest should be kept inside the vehicle and if needed put on prior to exiting the vehicle.
Maintaining the Safety Kit in good order is the responsibility of the vehicle operator and if items are used or become defective contacting Fleet Administration can effect replenishment.
17.5 Crash Packs
Each company vehicle has a Crash Pack located in the glove compartment and contains the following items:
- Instructions at the scene aide memoir
- Crash Insurance Form
- Company Crash Report
- Disposable camera with instructions on use
It is the vehicle operator's responsibility to ensure that any items from the pack are replaced after use and these can be resourced from Fleet Administration.
17.6 Defects and Minor Damage
Defects to the company vehicle must be remedied as soon as is practicably possible and immediately if the defect renders the vehicle unsafe or un- roadworthy.
Regular safety inspections must be carried out to ascertain the general condition of the company vehicle.
The vehicle operator is responsible for the remedy of vehicle defects and this can be achieved by contacting Fleet Administration who will advise you of the required process depending on the cost and availability of the defect or parts required. If you accept a vehicle without checking it over for defects/damage, you may find yourself held responsible and liable for the damage, as you were the last in charge of the vehicle.
17.7 Servicing
The vehicle operator is responsible for ensuring that the vehicle is taken to the designated garage to be serviced to the manufacturers schedule and requirements, this information is held and will be organised by Fleet Administration.
Vehicle operators are required to identify any additional work required at the servicing point and notify Fleet Administration prior to the scheduling of the servicing.
On vehicle collection from servicing vehicle operators must check that the required servicing and any other work has been carried out satisfactorily and report this situation to Fleet Administration.
Fleet Administration must be notified immediately if it has not been possible to meet the servicing schedule for any reason.
17.8 Mileage Recording
The vehicle operator is required to submit a record of mileage completed in the company vehicle on a weekly basis to Fleet Administration.
18. Driver Information
18.1 Highway Code
All drivers of company vehicles are issued with a Highway Code and are expected to adhere to the provisions of the Code as a condition of operating a company vehicle.
Vehicle operators should take particular notice of the information regarding the use of the words MUST and MUST NOT as these indicators highlight the legal application of the code.
Vehicle operators are advised to make themselves familiar with the code, and to the rules contained in the code.
18.2 Driver Licence Requirement
The vehicle operator must have a valid and current licence for the class of vehicle to be driven. Vehicle operators are to carry their driver's licence with them at all times unless submitted to the DVLA or the company for routine checking.
Drivers are required to notify the DVLA and the company if they are affected by certain illnesses. A full listing of these conditions can be obtained from Fleet Administration or by reading DVLA Form V100 available from post offices.
You are also required to inform the DVLA of a change of address and / or photograph (photo card licences) on DVLA Form D750 available from post offices.
18.3 Eyesight Requirements
Also see the Highway Code
Drivers are required to comply with the requirements of the Highway Code Rule 81.
Vehicle operators are not to wear so called 'night vision glasses' which claim to enhance vision during night driving situations.
18.4 Vehicle Condition
The vehicle operators is responsible for the cleanliness and condition of both the interior and exterior of the company vehicle and funding is made available for the operator to maintain this the vehicle must be maintained in a pristine, safe and roadworthy condition at all times.
If a vehicle operator fails to ensure these requirements are met the authorisation to drive or the allocation of a company vehicle may be reviewed.
18.5 Safety checks
Vehicle operators are required to carry out routine safety checks on company vehicles as a condition of operation.
The checks are divided up into journey, weekly and monthly checks.
These checks and their frequency are contained in the vehicle checklist that is available from Fleet Administration.
Vehicle operators must consider that in adverse weather the condition and cleanliness of all screens both interior and exterior, the vehicle number plate and the lenses of all lights must be maintained to a higher standard and more regular checking and cleaning.
Visual checks should be carried out on all company vehicles before embarking on a journey (if required a check sheet can be supplied by Fleet Administration). Any concerns upon concluding this check should be reported to Fleet Administration immediately.
The journey checks consist of the following:
- Fuel
- Dashboard warning lights
- External lights, operating and clean lenses
- Tyres for inflation levels and visible damage
- Mirror adjustment and cleanliness
- Windscreen wiper and washer function
- Number plate cleanliness & visibility
- Loading of the vehicle
Weekly Checks:
- Oil and coolant levels
- Spare wheel inflation levels
- Tyre for tread wear indicators
- Personal Protective Equipment PPE if issued
- Door and steering locking systems operating correctly
- Screen and body damage from stone chips etc
- * Loading restraints or guards for integrity
Monthly Checks
- Handbrake effectiveness
- Seatbelt operation (tug to lock test)
- Fuel consumption
- Mileage report
- Crash pack contents level
- Safety kit contents and serviceability
- Drivers' Handbook for currency
- Road Fund Licence currency
- * Servicing schedule
As well as routine checks vehicle operators must conduct 'return to vehicle checks' to ensure that there has been no damage or change to the vehicle condition in their absence.
From time to time management will conduct spot checks of vehicle condition and roadworthiness.
If vehicle operators are driving a different vehicle to their normal vehicle they should ensure that the vehicle is thoroughly checked as per the checklist both before and after the vehicle use.
Vehicle operators must understand that if a vehicle is operated in an unsafe or un-roadworthy condition that the vehicle operator will be held responsible for any subsequent outcome.
18.6 Courtesy
Vehicle operators are required to drive company vehicles in a responsible and courteous manner.
Where complaints from the public or clients or comments from other employees indicate that this is not being applied the vehicle operator concerned may be interviewed and may face disciplinary action.
18.7 Driver fatigue
Also see the Highway Code
You must not operate a company vehicle if you are too tired and should comply with the advice and guidance contained in Rule 80 of the Highway Code.
Drivers should be aware of the affects of driving long distances over a period of time and the accumulative affects of this situation.
A general guideline is given below and should be routinely applied:
- Consider alternative means of transport
- Take a 15-minute break every two hours
- Stop in a safe place and get out of the vehicle
- Take a caffeine drink whilst you are stopped
- Do not try to carry on regardless
- Be aware of your own limitations
- Night and poor weather cause additional tiredness
If you feel that you are unable to drive due to tiredness you should contact your line manager who will advise you of the best course of action to take.
18.8 Driver Use of Alcohol
The Highway Code gives specific instructions in the area of drinking and driving. Rule 83 must be adhered to at all times.
Many people who have taken alcohol the night previously may still be operating a vehicle illegally due to the retention of alcohol in the body.
Vehicle operators should be aware that in situations where a company vehicle operator is found to be in breach of this advice may have committed an act of gross negligence and be subject to the full provisions of the company disciplinary policy and may be in breach of the Contract of Employment.
18.9 Driver Use of Drugs and Medicines
The Highway Code gives specific instructions in the area of use of drugs. Rule 84 must be adhered to at all times.
Vehicle operators should also be aware that the purchase and use of 'over the counter' medicines might render them liable to higher risk when operating a vehicle and should always seek the advice of a pharmacist before using the medicines if intending to drive.
19. Mobile Telephone and Driving
Policy Scope
This policy applies to all users of mobile telephones for any use whilst at work, whether the equipment is issued by the company or personal equipment is being used. Additionally employees are strongly advised to adhere to this policy for use of any mobile telephones outside working hours as best practice advice.
Research has demonstrated that drivers who drive and use a mobile phone are four times more likely to have an accident.
19.1 The Law
From 1st December 2003 it will be illegal to operate a hand held mobile telephone whilst driving a vehicle in the UK. If convicted you will receive a £30.00 fine (this can be increased to a maximum fine of £1000 on conviction if the matter goes to court).
This new offence will be created by a new regulation added to the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986. The new offence does not apply to hands free equipment.
If fined for this new offence you are required as a condition of operating company equipment that you immediately inform Fleet Administration of the situation. If convicted of the charge of careless driving or driving without due care, and a mobile telephone is found to be a contributory factor, the penalty for the charge will be escalated and a charge of careless driving or worse may be considered. There have been instances where both company and mobile telephone records have been sequestrated for this purpose.
19.2 The Highway Code
Rule 127 of the Highway Code states:
You MUST exercise proper control of your vehicle at all times. Never use a hand held mobile phone or microphone when driving. Using hands free equipment is also likely to distract your attention from the road. It is far safer not to use any telephone while you are driving - find a safe place to stop first".
19.3 The Company
Clifford House will not accept any liability for the conduct of its drivers if acting outside the provisions of this policy. If a driver is charged with use of a hand held mobile telephone Fleet Administration should be notified by the line manager.
The company will consider it a breach of the law if a driver is convicted of use of a handheld mobile telephone whilst driving and will interpret this action as misconduct and may invoke the company disciplinary policy as a result.
19.4 The Equipment
Mobile telephones must be restrained in the supplied holder that is secured to the vehicle in accordance with the manufacturers installation instructions and the device must not be removed or replaced whilst driving.
All equipment must be removed from the vehicle prior to the return of the vehicle to the contract supplier and refitted in line with the installation instructions to the new vehicle.
19.5 Using Mobile Phones whilst driving
Operators of company vehicles are forbidden to operate hand held telephone or communication devices whilst operating a company vehicle.
Making Handsfree Calls
- Do not undertake any action, which distracts you from driving.
- Do not undertake any action, which reduces your vehicle control.
- Drivers should not initiate calls or use text operations whilst driving.
- Do not accept hand held calls whilst driving
- Calls should only be made when the vehicle is safely parked.
- Calls should not be made when encountering standing traffic or queue situations.
- Limit hands free calls to an "I will call back" message.
- Do not attempt "talk me in" directions whilst driving.
- Do not record/note down information from a hands free call whilst driving.
- Always use message divert or messaging services.
- Use codes for urgent messages, stop in a safe place to answer.
- Use scheduled rest stops to make and answer calls.
- Ensure the phone is always secured in a suitable holder.
- Do not connect or disconnect the phone whilst on the move.
If an emergency arises where use of the mobile telephone is absolutely vital then try to find a safe place to stop.
Remember the company mobile telephone records may be sequestrated as evidence in a serious traffic accident and you may be liable to disciplinary action if you have not adhered to this policy.
19.6 Answering Calls
If it is absolutely necessary to answer a call this must be done after pulling over to a safe place and stopping the vehicle.
If answering a call keep your response to an absolute minimum and if a more prolonged exchange is required briefly explain and call back at another arranged time or when you have found a safe place to stop.
It is possible on most modern devices to set up the telephone to identify certain callers, by means of different ring tones, this enables a decision to stop in order to answer the call to be made without having to view or activate the telephone.
Remember even when answering a call when stationary in a safe place your attention will be distracted and the security of yourself, your vehicle and even your phone and other equipment may be at risk.
Drivers are to be aware that a mobile telephone device may become a projectile in the event of a collision and additionally the device may cause impediment to the operation of the foot pedals if it is allowed to fall or is knocked into the driver's foot well.
19.7 Guidance for callers to mobile phones
If you know that the person you are ringing is driving only call them if it is an urgent matter. If you must ring them and when they answer it is apparent that they are driving:
- Ask them when you or they can ring back.
- Keep the call to an absolute minimum duration.
- Leave a message for them.
If you are using a separate ring tone system do not speak to the driver, wait for the call back when they have parked in a safe place.
Never ring a driver's mobile telephone and ask the recipient to write down information unless they have confirmed that they are parked in a safe place.
It is possible to assign ring tones to other employees, clients and personal numbers and this is the best method to assist you when trying to decide if you should take the call.
Remember the company telephone records may be sequestrated as evidence in a serious traffic accident and you may be liable to disciplinary action if you have not adhered to this policy.
19.8 Security of mobile telephone equipment
Security of company Mobile Telephone and its associated equipment is the responsibility of the employee to which the equipment is issued.
Users of mobile telephones should not leave the device in a position where passing or organized thieves could steal it, if not in use the device should be concealed.
Users of mobile telephones should remain aware that regular theft of mobile telephones occurs whilst the user has the device activated and held up to the ear, when in this position the user is usually restricting their own vision, which may allow an unseen approach to be made.
If you are challenged to hand over your mobile telephone by a thief who is offering violence you should hand over the device immediately and take the appropriate action to inform the police, telephone company and your line manager as soon as possible.
Employees are expected to take reasonable measures to safeguard the equipment and may be required to contribute to the cost of replacement of the equipment if lost or stolen due to careless or inappropriate action.
20. First Aid
The first Aid kit you are supplied with is intended for company use only; you are advised not to apply first Aid to casualties unless you are trained or competent and certain of what you are doing and have considered the potential result of your actions.
There are a number of things you can do in the event of a crash where there are casualties even if you have had no training:
20.1 Deal with Danger
Further collisions and fire are the main dangers after a collision approach any vehicle with care. Switch off all engines and, if possible warn other traffic without putting yourself in danger. Stop anyone from smoking as fuel may have been spilt.
20.2 Get Help
Try to get the assistance of bystanders but do not ask them to put themselves at risk. Call or get someone to call the emergency services as soon as possible. The emergency services will want to know the exact location of the crash and the number of vehicles and casualties involved. Call the On Call Manager as they will also be able to assist you (07811 181029).
20.3 Help the Casualties
Be confident in your actions should you decide to assist. DO NOT remove casualties still in vehicles unless further danger is likely. DO NOT remove a motorcyclist's helmet unless it is essential, i.e. breathing obstruction. DO NOT give any casualty anything to eat or drink as this may impair later treatment.
Try to make the casualties comfortable and warm and prevent unnecessary movement, which may aggravate injuries. Reassure the casualties, as they may be shocked.
20.4 If you decide to apply for first aid
Follow the basic ABC of First Aid as shown on Page 93 of the Highway Code:
A = Airway - check for and relieve any obstruction to breathing. Remove any obvious obstruction in the mouth. Breathing may begin and colour improves
B = Breathing - if breathing does not begin when the airway has been cleared, lift the chin and tilt the head very gently backwards. Pinch the casualty's nostrils and blow into the mouth until the chest rises; withdraw, then repeat regularly once every four seconds until the casualty can breathe unaided.
C = Circulation - prevent blood loss to maintain circulation. If bleeding is present apply firm hand pressure over the wound, preferably using some clean material, without pressing upon any foreign body in the wound. Secure a pad with a bandage or length of cloth. Raise the limb to lessen the bleeding, providing it is not broken.
20.5 Be prepared
Always ensure your first Aid Kit is complete and is easily located. You may decide to learn emergency first aid from an organisation such as the local ambulance services, the St John Ambulance Association and Brigade, St Andrews Ambulance Association, the British Red Cross or another suitably qualified body.
21. Driver Development Training
Many different companies now offer various types of driver training, if any member of staff is interested in this Fleet Administration can provide information on courses and prices.
22. Driver Code of Conduct
In several places in the handbook there have been references to how vehicle operators should conduct themselves whilst operating a company vehicle. These references have been consolidated into a Drivers' Code of Conduct as illustrated below.
As a company vehicle operator I will:
- Always be courteous to other road users
- Act in a responsible manner when operating company vehicles
- Abide by the laws governing the use of the public highway
- Abide by the laws regarding the use of a vehicle on the public highway
- Never undertake an activity that will endanger other road users
- Ensure that the vehicle I am operating is safe and roadworthy
- Concentrate on my driving and avoid distractions.
- Not operate the vehicle if I am unfit to operate a vehicle
- Never compromise my own and others' safety through drink or drugs
It is the expectation of the company that drivers will comply with this code and take a pride in their driving to the benefit of all road users. The declaration at the back of the handbook indicated that you have signed up to the code and will apply it as a routine part of your driving.
23. Pregnant Drivers
Like all drivers or passengers, pregnant women must wear a seat belt, unless their doctor certifies that they are medically exempt - there is no automatic exemption.
Wearing seatbelts may not be comfortable, but it improves safety for both mother and unborn baby. Compared to the average motorist, pregnant women face additional safety concerns when riding in motor vehicles.
Pregnant drivers are urged to adhere to the following advice and guidance when driving:
- Adjust the seat into which you are getting into or getting out of back as far as it can go to maximise room.
- Ensure that you have two good handholds when entering or exiting the vehicle.
- Get assistance if entry or exit from the vehicle is difficult.
- When possible, ride as a passenger rather than drive to avoid potential contact with the steering wheel.
- A lap-and-diagonal standard seat belt is preferable to a lap-only belt.
- On a standard safety belt, always position the lap strap across the hips, fitting comfortably under the bump.
- The diagonal strap should be placed between the breasts over the sternum around the side of the bump.
- Ensure the belt 'clicks' home, as you may not be able to observe this.
- Never use the lap portion of the belt with the diagonal strap behind you, even if the diagonal strap is causing breast discomfort (especially in later months).
- If fitted the air bag should not be disconnected and remain operational.
- Try to always drive a vehicle that allows the most clearance between the steering wheel and your abdomen.
- If adjustable steering wheel fitted maximize abdomen-to-wheel clearance.
- If wearing a coat remove it or adjust the coat to make sure it does not interfere with low placement of the lap belt.
- If driving for long periods take a break if the seatbelt or seating position gets uncomfortable.
- Avoid driving in hazardous conditions, such as in bad weather or on icy roads.
- Ensure that the vehicle that you intend to use has no defects that might cause a breakdown.
- Ensure that you have a mobile telephone with you when driving.
Ensure that you let someone know when you expect to arrive at your destination and inform them when you have done so.
24. Child Seats
The driver must ensure that all children under 14 years of age wear seat belts or sit in an approved child restraint. This should be a baby seat, child seat, booster seat or booster cushion appropriate to the child's weight and size, fitted to the manufacturer's instructions.
Laws RTA 1988 sects 14 & 15, MV(WSB)R & MV(WSBCFS)R
Drivers who are carrying children in cars should ensure that: -
- Children do not sit behind the rear seats in an estate car or hatchback, unless a special child seat has been fitted
- The child safety door locks, where fitted, are used when children are in the car
- Children are kept under control
- A rear facing baby seat is NEVER fitted to a seat protected by an airbag
25. General
- Drivers should try to ensure that children are kept supervised and occupied by another passenger especially on long journeys
- Children can be a distraction when driving, do not try to deal with situations on the move, stop in a safe place and attend to the child's requirements
- Route selection when travelling with young children should include scheduled stops where toilet and meal facilities exist
- Never transport more children than the vehicle has the required restraint systems for
- Never use seatbelts for more than one child or for a child and adult with the child sitting on the adult's lap
- Always ensure that the child restraint is suitable and fitted to the manufacturer's specifications by a competent person
- Monitor your child's height and change the restraint system to comply with the legal requirements
- Be aware of unrestrained children or their toys and equipment becoming a 'projectile' in the event of a collision
- NEVER leave children in the vehicle for any period of time when you are not in attendance
This table summarises the main legal requirements for wearing of seatbelts for adults and children: (must and must not = legally required)
In addition, the revised regulations (18 September 2006) also say that rear-facing baby seats MUST NOT be used in a seat protected by a frontal air-bag unless the air-bag has been deactivated manually or automatically
26. Highway Code
26.1 Issue of the Highway Code
All vehicles will be issued with a copy of the Highway Code and the company will re-issue subsequent updates for vehicle operators to use.
26.2 Use of the Highway Code
Whilst the company accept that it may be difficult for vehicle operators to be intimate with every aspect of the code it is considered reasonable that the main provisions of the code must be understood and adhered to.
End