Driving for work caused the most workplace fatalities in 2015. Health and Safety Authority (HSA) statistics show that, of 55 workplace fatalities in 2015, 21 involved vehicles.
How can you manage the risks of driving for work?
- Remember that 'place of work' is defined (under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act) to include vehicles, meaning you may be liable for accidents to employees driving for work and this liability may be criminal and / or civil.
- Identify risks faced by your workforce, including risks to workers driving for purposes ancillary to their principal work activities (for example, attending off site meetings) as well as professional drivers, and third parties, including other road users and pedestrians.
- Assess those risks, including the safety and suitability of vehicles (and any associated equipment) and of driving employees (having regard to their qualifications, training and experience). Ensure risk assessments and related safety measures required are addressed in your health and safety policies, procedures and safety statement.
- Provide training to employees as necessary, particularly for the operation of non-conventional vehicles.
- Consider the insurance implications for the company and individual employees.
This article contains a general summary of developments and is not a complete or definitive statement of the law. Specific legal advice should be obtained where appropriate.