A Bedfordshire-based fleet management firm has seen remarkable business benefits after adopting a systematic approach to safety with the help of the Driving for Better Business programme.
AES Fleet offers fleet compliance solutions across the PSV, HGV and LCV sectors, underpinned by a nine-strong Transit fleet. The vans are used by its mobile engineers to fit and maintain camera systems, air con units, telematics systems and more, supporting customers with safer, more efficient fleet operations.
The company’s good practice starts at home and it’s long been involved with fleet improvement programmes, including the free, government-backed Driving for Better Business resources.
The business benefits to the fleet operation have been substantial and include zero collisions in four years, no unscheduled downtime and less absenteeism. It’s also seen cheaper insurance year on year, a 25% cut in running costs and has access to immediate evidence should a claim occur, with rapid first notification of loss.
MD Richard Stansfield is adamant that fleets should not consider crashes as inevitable.
“Collisions are preventable. If you manage road risk correctly from the start and ensure compliance and training throughout, then the result is a safe fleet,” he said.
He believes the fleet’s running costs are also reduced by approximately 25% each year through preventative maintenance – as opposed to reactive maintenance, which is always more expensive and creates unplanned downtime.
He cites brake pads as an example. If they are regularly checked and replaced, not only will the vehicle brake efficiently and safely but the discs won’t become damaged.
“Conversely if you let the pads wear too far, you are suddenly replacing 10 discs as well as pads,” he stated. “Regular maintenance prevents damage.”
AES also takes an active interest in driver welfare and mental health. Drivers have accommodation provided after long journeys, so they do not drive when tired. Both senior managers have taken mental health awareness training, so they know how to offer appropriate support.
“A van is a tool. However, if you put someone tired or unwell behind the wheel it is a weapon,” Stansfield outlined.
“My ethos is about getting everybody home safe to their families every night. That’s my underlying goal,” he added. “We do everything we can to make that happen – and that’s the ultimate business benefit.”
The full ASE Fleet case study is on the Driving for Better Business website; one of a number of examples of organisationss that have seen substantial benefits of managing their drivers and vehicles through DfBB.
To get started on your Driving for Better Business journey, click here.
