FORS has run its fourth annual Members’ Conference, explaining to 450 delegates how the scheme can bring about a Safer, Smarter, Greener future for road transport.
The one-day event at the National Conference Centre in Solihull saw speeches from major industry stakeholders including Highways England, Kier, Michelin and Rexel while topics under focus included second-generation smart tachographs, tyre pressure monitoring, and the switch to app-based fleet management.
BigChange director Jo Godsmark, who is also an active member of the CILT (Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport) Outsourcing and Procurement Forum, was the host of this year’s event.
Godsmark said: “With 95% of collisions caused by human error, and growing concerns over air quality issues, there is still a lot we need to do. Everyone in the room today recognises this and continues to work towards improved road safety and environmental protection.”
Professor Geoff Clarke from AECOM explored the role of alternative fuels in a panel discussion with Graeme Neagus from Renault Trucks UK, alternative fuel consultant Martin Flach and Brian Robinson from the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership.
A poll conducted during the session showed that 19% of the participating audience members already had an electric vehicle as part of their current fleet make up.
The event also highlighted the need for operators to look after the long-term health of their workforce.
Natalie Geraghty, head of customer and communications at Kier Highways, discussed the need for operators to understand the importance of driver mental health. She said: “When it comes to mental wellbeing, we shouldn’t be competitive, we should be sticking together – just as we do with safety. We should all be tackling these difficult issues in the same way.”
The event also provided an exhibition of 36 FORS Associates and four FORS Affinity Partners, showcasing products or services designed to help members meet the requirements of the FORS Standard.
John Hix, FORS director, said: “Safety is always at the heart of FORS, and we know our members are fully committed to achieving and maintaining safety standards far beyond the legal minimum requirements. We hope the event has really emphasised to our members the importance of greater efficiency to help reduce emissions and deliver climate protection.”
