Ask Gavin: How do I make sure my drivers are staying safe? Help!

This anonymous employer wanted to know how they could make sure their workplace transport activities were safe. So they asked Gavin Scarr Hall, Peninsula’s Director of Health & Safety, for expert advice.

Here’s what they had to say

Hi Gavin. I work in construction but specifically I’m in charge of the warehouse where we store our building supplies. I’m responsible for making sure our operations run smoothly – from managing suppliers to making sure our forklift truck drivers stay safe when transporting materials and storing them. I just want to make sure I’m doing everything I can to reduce any risk of incidents during this process. I always remind my drivers to adhere to safety guidelines and put them all through rigid training before they get behind the wheel. But can you run me through the specific things I can do to make sure they’re staying safe? And what are the most important things I need to tick off when it comes to vehicle maintenance? Any advice would be helpful. Thanks.Anon

Gavin’s reply was…

Hi Anon,

Thanks for reaching out with such an important query. Every year, we see a high number of recorded fatalities attached to workplace transport activities.

The most common accidents, injuries and fatalities are the result of:

• People being struck by a vehicle
• People falling out of a vehicle
• Vehicles overturning
• Loads falling out of vehicles when staff are loading and unloading

That being said, as an employer, you have a legal duty to make sure that any transport activities you run in your workplace adhere to Health & Safety regulations.

“I just want to make sure I’m doing everything I can to reduce any risk of incidents”

To identify and manage the hazards that present themselves with this kind of work, you need to carry out a risk assessment.

Your risk assessment should ultimately consider your workplace, the driver, the vehicle they’re using, and the task itself. Although this is not an exhaustive list, to be specific, you’d want to consider factors, like:

• The condition and suitability of your vehicles (how safe is your vehicle? Is it suitable for its purpose? Would a different type of vehicle be a safer option?)
• The working environment (consider the layout and features, whether the work is happening in or outdoors).
• The nature of the tasks your drivers are performing (are they loading, unloading, driving?)
• The routes your vehicles take and whether they’re likely to encounter pedestrians
• The competence and training of your drivers (which as you mention, you take extra care with already)

“I always remind my drivers to adhere to safety guidelines and put them all through rigid training before they get behind the wheel”

This is very important and should be a key part of your risk assessment.

This is especially important for new starters who may have only recently completed their training. Alongside their training, it would be useful to give your drivers their own safety checklists. Your drivers will then be able to check that all safety steps have been taken while on the job.

When you’ve ensured that all drivers have completed thorough training and considered the factors I mentioned, that’s when you want to think about control measures.

“can you run me through the specific things I can do to make sure they’re staying safe?”

It might sound obvious, but it’s so important to make sure your drivers are very clear about the specific safety practices for loading and unloading vehicles. You’ll also want to make sure to regularly maintain your vehicles.

HSE provides specific guidance around safety practices for loading and unloading. Your drivers will need to make sure that anything they transport is safely secured in the vehicle (so it can’t move around and be a risk while travelling).

You would also need to think about how you can keep your work site safe. Do you have separate routes for your vehicles and pedestrians? Is there a one-way system? Is there a designated area for loading and unloading? Do you have safe ladders for workers who need to climb onto a vehicle. Is there adequate lighting in your warehouse? These are all really important things to consider.

“what are the most important things I need to tick off when it comes to vehicle maintenance?”

There are a few important considerations when it comes to vehicle maintenance.

Naturally, a good place to start is by checking the breaks (they should work 100% efficiently of course). You should also check the steering wheel, tyres, mirrors and make sure everything is in perfect working order.

Some other good questions to ask might be:

• Does the vehicle have functioning warning systems? (like horns and lights)
• Do you have guard rails or ladders to help your workers climb up into their truck to reduce the risk of slips and falls?
• Does the vehicle have a CCTV feature to help drivers check when reversing and moving through the warehouse?
• Are seat belts comfortable and secure?

It’s important to follow HSE guidance when it comes to vehicle maintenance, including inspection, maintenance and repair.

The bottom line is this, as long as you’ve made sure to take all the right precautions in line with Health & Safety guidance, then you know you’re doing everything you can to reduce the risk of accidents.

You may find the below resource useful if you’d like to read more about vehicle safety and risk assessments:

• Why is a Forklift Risk Assessment important?

If you have any concerns about your safety practices when it comes to your drivers or vehicles, then it’s important to consult a professional.

Peninsula has been awarded the RoSPA Gold Award for Health & Safety performance in 2025, showing our experts’ commitment to providing exceptional Health & Safety service. To speak to an adviser today, you can book a free consultation.

Hope this helps Anon. Please get in touch if you’d like further information!

All the best,

Gavin