Companies that employ field workers usually maintain a vehicle fleet including inspection and preventative maintenance programs. This practice helps ensure that the vehicles are safe to operate and kept in good repair during travel to and from project locations. Proper maintenance also helps prevent mechanical system-related crashes—accounting for approximately 2% of all motor vehicle accidents in the US according to the National Motor Vehicle Crash Causation Survey. A vehicle inspection program requires drivers to document vehicle inspection on a regular basis.
Program Benefits
Although preventable, many accidents occur due to mechanical issues and have led to 44,000 car crashes, according to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2015 report. These inspections usually require employees to check mechanical items like tire tread depth, brakes, vehicle systems fluid levels, safety features and equipment, and the general condition of the vehicle’s body. Regular company vehicle inspections allow organizations to better track maintenance or repair needs required to keep the vehicle safe for operation.
A Smooth Ride
In a #ThinkSafetyFirst environment, the goal of a company’s preventative maintenance program is to ensure vehicles run safely and efficiently. Regular upkeep helps prevent major issues caused by negligence over time and avoids costly repairs and incidents otherwise preventable.
Bottom Line
Regular maintenance extends vehicle life, saving money in the long run. Companies won’t have to buy or lease vehicles as often if their vehicles are properly maintained.
Stay tuned for more information on workplace safety topics in our #ThinkSafetyFirst blog series.