As winter sets in, ensuring the safety of HGV drivers becomes even more critical. At Employ Recruitment, we take every precaution to prepare our drivers for challenging conditions. Here’s how we prioritise safety during the colder months, ensuring that our drivers and the goods they transport arrive safely.
1.Comprehensive Vehicle Checks: A Vital Compliance Rule
Winter weather increases the risk of vehicle breakdowns, which is why we emphasise the importance of thorough vehicle inspections. As part of their compliance responsibilities, our drivers conduct these detailed checks on client sites before taking control of the vehicle.To support them, every driver is equipped with a comprehensive vehicle guide to ensure the highest standards of inspection, with particular attention give to:
• Tire condition and pressure to ensure maximum grip.
• Lights and indicators for full visibility and road safety.
• Wiper blades, screen wash levels, and de-icing equipment to prepare for winter conditions.
We recommend an emergency kits, including torches, blankets, and high-visibility jackets, for unexpected situations.
By performing these meticulous checks, our drivers not only meet compliance requirements but also ensure that every journey is as safe and efficient as possible—helping to protect both your vehicles and your operations.
2. Training Drivers for Winter-Specific Challenges
Our drivers receive regular reminders on how to handle adverse conditions such as snow, ice, and fog. Key areas we focus on include:
• Reducing speed and maintaining a safe braking distance.
• Anticipating hazards, especially on untreated roads.
• Navigating inclines and declines safely in icy conditions.
3. Route Planning with Safety in Mind
Safe journeys start with careful planning. Drivers are reminded to:
• Monitor weather reports before departure.
• Plan alternative routes to avoid delays caused by road closures or hazardous conditions.
• Check traffic updates to avoid congested areas where stopping distances are critical.
4. Emphasising Rest and Managing Fatigue
Long hours behind the wheel can lead to fatigue, which is even more dangerous in winter conditions. We remind and drivers to:
• Take regular breaks to stretch and refresh
• Stay hydrated and eat balanced meals to maintain energy levels.
• Know when to stop and rest if weather conditions worsen.
A well-rested driver is an alert driver, and we prioritise fatigue management in our scheduling.
5. Continuous Compliance with Safety Standards
At Employ Recruitment, safety isn’t seasonal—it’s year-round. All our drivers:
• Meet CPC training requirements and are updated on the latest safety regulations.
• Use fully operational tachographs to ensure compliance with working hours.
• Receive ongoing support to address concerns or challenges on the road.
Compliance ensures that every driver operates to the highest safety standards, no matter the conditions.
Keeping drivers safe on the road!
