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• Frosty the 'No' Man

Frosty the 'No' Man

Fleet Management company Masterlease is urging bosses to say ‘no’ to driving in adverse driving conditions or lay out strict guidelines on safety as Britain is gripped by arctic conditions.

The company, which manages in excess of 60,000 vehicles in the UK, says the first week back after the Christmas break is always a busy time, but with the treacherous driving conditions caused by the heavy snow and freezing temperatures, driving for work can be even more hazardous.

Stopping distances are increased tenfold in the icy conditions, and tyre grip is hugely reduced – particularly when the temperature plummets and the snow freezes over. Weather warnings advise people not to travel unless really necessary, but how does this apply to those who drive for work?

In an economic climate where employees often worry about losing their jobs, staff can feel the pressure to make journeys for work that they would not undertake otherwise.

However, Robert Kingdom at Masterlease believes that this is when employers need to take the initiative: “It is the responsibility of the employer and HR department to ensure that workers are not taking unnecessary risks. Now, more than ever, with the introduction and enforcement of the Corporate Manslaughter Act, businesses have to take a front-seat when it comes to ensuring the safety of their drivers.

“It is important for business owners and HR departments not to put pressure on employees to drive in conditions that they do not feel comfortable with. The Corporate Manslaughter Act reinforces this, and businesses should not be encouraging employees to take risks.”

If driving is possible and necessary for employees, businesses should ensure that drivers are taking the necessary precautions:

• Take it slow: Stopping distances are affected by icy conditions, so drivers need to be extra cautious. Discourage drivers making appointments close together to allow them extra time to travel, this means that they can avoid hurrying in hazardous driving conditions.

• De-ice thoroughly: Ensure drivers leave plenty of time to de-ice the vehicle thoroughly before attempting to drive. Clearing snow off vehicles after a heavy snowfall can make de-icing easier the next time the vehicle is needed.

• Emergency supplies: Ensure employees have adequate food supplies, clothing and blankets in their vehicle in case they were to be stranded or breakdown. Employees should carry de-icer and a scraper in their vehicle too, as adverse weather can come on quickly.

• Take a break: Ensure drivers are given enough time to fit frequent breaks into their journeys as the extra concentration that is required to drive in icy conditions can be more tiring than with normal journeys.