Fleet decision-makers are being urged to be ‘vigiliant’ when managing their fleet’s drug and alcohol impairment issues…

Drug and Alcohol Impairment 

The Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) has urged fleet decision-makers to be ‘vigilant’ when managing the likes of drug and alcohol impairment. It’s stated that, now more than ever, it’s crucial that both decision-makers and drivers can spot the signs of impairment; whilst recognising how to address them ‘effectively’.

FORS has emphasised the role of proper vigilance and appropriate measures in reducing risk and, potentially, saving lives. As it stands, employers have a duty of care to both their employees and members of the public. Should an impaired driver experience an accident, the employer can be held jointly responsible for the incident if appropriate safety measures haven’t been implemented.

‘An Unfortunate Challenge’

Paul Wilkes, FORS business services manager, emphasised the importance of dealing with drug and alcohol impairment. He said, “drug and alcohol impairment is an unfortunate challenge that operators of all sizes face. The FORS Standard requires that members have a drug and alcohol procedure in place”. He continued, “that includes actions to take on suspecting driver impairment due to drugs or alcohol, and I would urge operators to look carefully at these procedures to make doubly sure that they are fit for purpose”.

As it stands, alcohol is responsible for 167,000 missed working days per year in the UK. It’s estimated that it costs the economy £7.3 billion as a direct result of low productivity. That said, this is the least of business’ worries. Safety, for both drivers and members of the public, is paramount.

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