Applauding HSE Northern Ireland's ‘Drive Danger Out’ Initiative
NI Economy Minister Conor Murphy and HSENI Chief Executive Robert Kidd
At DriverFocus, we’ve long championed the importance of proactive fleet safety management. That's why we're excited to spotlight the efforts of the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) and their current 'Drive Danger Out' campaign, an initiative designed to drastically reduce workplace transport-related deaths and injuries. Launched last year and gaining fresh momentum in 2024, this campaign stands as a shining example of how straightforward safety measures can make an enormous difference to both workers' lives and business operations.
The Stark Reality of Workplace Transport Risks
Since 2012 in Northern Ireland, 36 workers have tragically lost their lives, and over 160 have been seriously injured, due to incidents involving vehicles in the workplace. These statistics highlight the critical need for more attention on workplace transport safety. Whether on a construction site, a farm, or in any industrial setting, vehicles are an essential part of day-to-day operations—but they are also a major source of risk.
Economy Minister Conor Murphy, speaking at the recent event in Stormont, reinforced the gravity of this issue by endorsing the HSENI’s initiative and stressing that "the safety of workers is paramount." This aligns with the Department for the Economy’s vision, which advocates that "a Good Job is a Safe Job." In this sense, ensuring that fleet safety is a priority for employers is not only a legal obligation but a moral one too.
The Drive Danger Out Campaign: What It Involves
‘Drive Danger Out’ is more than just a slogan. It’s a comprehensive campaign backed by an inspection programme designed to reduce the number of workplace transport incidents. HSENI has pulled out all the stops to make this initiative accessible and engaging across multiple platforms, including television, radio, and social media.
One of the most innovative aspects is the collaboration with local comedian Colin Geddis, whose videos specifically target younger workers, such as apprentices. By using humour to raise awareness, the campaign ensures that the message of safety reaches a demographic often overlooked in traditional safety drives.
The mobile billboard element also took the campaign on the road to all council areas in Northern Ireland, reminding the public and employers alike of the critical importance of safety when driving for work. This kind of visibility ensures that safety remains front-of-mind, even in high-pressure work environments.
The Key Safety Messages: Safe Site, Safe Vehicle, Safe Driver
The crux of the ‘Drive Danger Out’ campaign is its focus on three essential aspects of workplace transport safety:
Safe Site: ensuring that the workplace is set up in a way that minimises the risks of vehicle incidents.
Safe Vehicle: keeping vehicles in excellent working order and ensuring regular checks and maintenance.
Safe Driver: ensuring that drivers are trained, competent, and aware of the risks associated with their role.
This trifecta of safety is aimed at encouraging everyone—employers, managers, and workers alike—to stop, assess, and act when it comes to their daily interactions with workplace vehicles. Robert Kidd, HSENI Chief Executive, put it aptly when he said that workers should "stop and think about what they are doing" to prevent incidents.
A Collective Endorsement from Industry Leaders
It’s not just government ministers who are getting behind this initiative. 'Drive Danger Out' has garnered widespread support from various industry bodies, including the Construction Employers Federation (CEF), Manufacturing NI, and the Ulster Farmers Union (UFU). This collective backing reinforces the campaign's message and encourages a broader cultural shift towards safety-first thinking in the workplace.
Moreover, the HSENI has provided tailored advice and guidance for employers across different sectors, ensuring that businesses of all sizes can implement the necessary steps to protect their workers. From inspection proformas to in-depth workplace transport safety guidance, these resources are readily available to help employers meet their responsibilities.
Why This Matters to Fleet Managers
For fleet managers and anyone responsible for workplace vehicles, this campaign serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of continuous safety oversight. By adopting the safety principles outlined by the HSENI, fleet managers can not only safeguard their drivers but also boost efficiency and reduce downtime caused by accidents or mechanical issues.
Implementing regular vehicle checks, fostering a culture of safety awareness, and ensuring that drivers have the necessary training are all crucial components of successful fleet management. The ‘Drive Danger Out’ campaign makes it clear that these practices should be non-negotiable.
Conclusion: A Worthy Initiative
At DriverFocus, we applaud the HSENI’s ‘Drive Danger Out’ campaign for its proactive and comprehensive approach to workplace transport safety. The initiative not only shines a spotlight on the significant risks posed by workplace vehicles but also offers practical solutions to drive these dangers out for good.
With the backing of industry leaders and government officials, as well as accessible tools for employers, this campaign has the potential to be a game-changer in reducing workplace incidents and collisions. Now, it’s up to fleet managers and business leaders to take up the mantle and ensure that their operations align with the principles of safe sites, safe vehicles, and safe drivers.
For more information on how to implement these best practices within your own fleet, visit HSENI’s workplace transport safety resource page at www.hseni.gov.uk/workplacetransport.
Sources: Health Service Executive Northern Ireland: https://www.hseni.gov.uk/topic/workplace-transport