Safeguarding Drivers With Advanced Fleet Safety Technology

We recently held a webinar in collaboration with SureCam, on the topic “From Aggression to Assurance: Safeguarding Drivers with Advanced Fleet Safety Technology,”. In this webinar, industry experts discussed the evolving challenges faced by fleet operators, cultural shifts in the industry and the innovative solutions that technology offers.

Key Panellists:

• Lee Jackson: Board of Directors at the Association of Fleet Professionals.
• Philip Read: Head of Safety, Health, Risk, and Resilience at G4S.
• Sam Footer: Director of Partnerships at SureCam.
• Mark Ryder: Chief Commercial Officer at Peoplesafe.

Challenges Faced by Fleet Operators

The discussion began with Philip Read, who highlighted the unique safety challenges faced by drivers. This is particularly important for those working alone or in dangerous locations.

He explained that drivers may experience violent incidents in some locations. These can include threats involving knives and machetes. In other areas, threats from patients’ family members are more common.

Lee Jackson agreed that these threats are seen across the industry. He also shared insights into opportunistic threats, such as the theft of expensive machinery and equipment.

He emphasised the need for solutions that help organisations manage, deter, and protect individuals in these scenarios.

These sentiments were echoed by Mark Ryder. He noted that Peoplesafe has seen a general increase in threats and harassment across various fleet sectors.

Mark also highlighted the rise in road rage and aggression towards drivers, especially in the post-pandemic era. This has led to a rise in personal safety concerns.

He shared examples of threats seen by Peoplesafe. These include delivery drivers and couriers being targeted for their contents or the vehicles they are driving.

The discussion then touched on the further rise in incidents during darker months. Shorter days and poor weather can both increase risk.

Mark added that this rise is not only linked to aggression. It can also be linked to safety concerns around weather conditions, such as slips, trips, and falls.

Technology Solutions and Innovations

The panellists discussed adopting advanced technology solutions to improve fleet safety.

Sam Footer mentioned the increasing demand for employee safety technology across various industries. He also discussed different applications based on specific fleet needs.

For example, satellite technology can support those operating in remote locations.

The conversation emphasised the importance of effective support for lone workers. It also highlighted the need to consider time, practicality, and cost-effectiveness.

Integrating Peoplesafe And SureCam Technology

Integration of Peoplesafe’s lone worker application with SureCam’s dashcam systems was a key topic, with speakers explaining how this integration provides real-time support in the event of incidents, offering a comprehensive solution that includes video evidence and swift emergency response 24/7, 365.

The benefits were then discussed, including improved driver safety, rapid deployment of emergency services, and an average police response time of approximately four minutes in threat-to-life situations.

These benefits also support medical emergencies and personal safety incidents when drivers exit their vehicles.

Additionally, dashcams were recognised as effective deterrents. Their presence can help prevent incidents, give drivers more confidence, and contribute to improved morale.

Cultural and Organisational Shifts

Commenting on organisational shifts, Philip outlined the cultural change project he has initiated at G4S.

The project aims to tackle the mentality of “it’s never going to happen to me.”

G4S requires all staff members to submit at least one hazard report per month. The company also conducts behavioural observations through peer reviews, offers online and face-to-face training, and appoints safety champions at each location.

These safety champions provide feedback on operational activities. Together, these measures aim to create a proactive safety culture.

They also involve all staff members in reporting and addressing potential hazards.

Philip shared that, as a result of this work, 100% of staff members at G4S now report a hazard every month.

Employee Wellbeing And Workplace Safety

Mark then highlighted the increased focus on employee wellbeing within organisations, particularly post-pandemic. Mark referenced a survey conducted by Peoplesafe, revealing that 22% of people had left their jobs in the last five years due to safety incidents, and one in five employees worry about their safety at least once a week. Stressing the need for organisations to step up and do more to prioritise their people’s safety and wellbeing in the workplace.

Company Car Fleets and Technology Adoption

Following a question from the audience, the discussion touched on the adoption of telematics and camera technology.

The panellists compared adoption in commercial fleets with company car grey fleets.

Sam suggested that pushback from staff using company cars often stems from privacy concerns and a lack of return on investment.

Lee echoed this sentiment. He suggested that company cars are often seen as an extension of employees’ personal space. This can make employees hesitant to accept this type of technology.

Philip discussed the potential catalysts for wider adoption. He linked this to a broader focus on employee wellbeing, reducing accidents, and supporting insurance claims.

The panellists widely agreed that return on investment and employee wellbeing could drive adoption in company car fleets.

Lee added that camera technology could play a crucial role in mitigating risks linked to incidents. It can also provide support or defence for claims.

He suggested that those in company cars who have not chosen camera technology may regret it in severe circumstances. This could further encourage adoption.

Lastly, the panellists mentioned that historical scepticism about vehicle telematics has faded. Concerns over employee tracking have also reduced.

As this technology is now widely adopted, the same pattern may follow for company car fleets over time.