Drivers play a crucial role in horticulture businesses, delivering plants, landscaping materials, and equipment to jobsites and customers. With April recognised as Distracted Driving Awareness Month, now is the perfect time to focus on reducing driving risks and implement a robust driver safety training program. In 2024, transportation and material-moving workers represented the occupational group with the highest number of occupational fatalities, totalling 1,391. Whether drivers navigate urban streets or rural roads, implementing a structured new-hire driver safety training program is essential to help prevent accidents, protect workers, and reduce liability.
Inexperienced or improperly trained drivers face an increased risk of accidents during deliveries and service calls. The horticulture industry presents unique challenges, including operating large trucks and specialised commercial vehicles, navigating various terrains such as residential areas, jobsites, and rural roads, and dealing with weather-related hazards such as rain, mud, and ice. The consequences of accidents extend beyond vehicle damage and operational delays, and can include workers' compensation claims, liability lawsuits, reputational harm, and loss of customers. By prioritising fleet driver safety training, businesses can minimise these risks and help protect their workforce.
© Hortica
Why driver safety training matters for newly hired commercial drivers
New drivers can come to the job with little experience, are unfamiliar with business routes, and may not be trained to use the available equipment. Implementing a structured commercial driver safety training program that includes specific new-hire training can benefit both the business and its employees in several ways.
A safety program helps protect drivers, customers, and the public, as proper training at the start helps reduce accidents and maintains the safe delivery of goods. Well-trained drivers also operate vehicles more efficiently and conduct regular inspections, extending vehicle lifespans and minimising maintenance costs. Additionally, safety-conscious and trained drivers are less likely to be involved in accidents. Businesses with strong risk management practices for their fleet typically experience fewer crashes, which helps control insurance costs.
How to implement an effective driver safety training program for employees
A strong driver training program begins at driver orientation, so employees understand safety expectations before they begin driving on behalf of the company. Key components of a new-hire safety training checklist include establishing clear policies, providing hands-on training, emphasising defensive driving techniques, conducting regular vehicle inspections, and committing to ongoing education and reinforcement.
Clear policies should outline speed limits, seatbelt use, and maintenance checks, as well as a distracted driving policy detailing what to avoid while driving, and a zero-tolerance approach to reckless driving and substance use. Hands-on training should require new drivers to complete a supervised driving period to familiarise themselves with company vehicles, routes, and loads, and should include instruction on safe vehicle operation, load securing, and manoeuvring in tight spaces.
Defensive driving techniques are equally important, with an emphasis on maintaining safe following distances, anticipating potential hazards, and adjusting for changes in weather and road conditions. The dangers of distracted driving, including mobile phone use, should be regularly reinforced. Drivers should also be required to perform pre- and post-trip inspections, with routine maintenance scheduled to help prevent mechanical failures that could lead to breakdowns and accidents.
Ongoing education and reinforcement should include periodic refresher courses and safety training, the use of real-life case studies to highlight the impact of unsafe driving, and, in consultation with human resources and legal professionals, the consideration of incentives for employees with safe driving records.
Building a long-term driver safety culture for your fleet
For any business that relies on commercial drivers, fleet safety training is not optional, it is essential to long-term success. Prioritising driver safety helps reduce accidents, control insurance costs, and protect employees. By implementing a structured new-hire safety training program, businesses can build a culture of safety and efficiency that benefits drivers, customers, and the wider public alike.
For more information:
Hortica
www.hortica.com
