For most Brits, an icy commute to work can be avoided, thanks to the rise of remote working. However, many industries, including transport, are tasked with essential work that requires being out on the roads, whatever the weather. Here are some top tips driving in extreme weather conditions for fleet operators to keep drivers and vehicles safe:
1. Install a fleet management system to avoid delays
Driving in wet and snowy conditions can slow down a journey significantly. Debris from storms, roadblocks due to snow and doubled stopping distances all impact delivery times, so installing a transport management system can help drivers navigate journeys and avoid delays. Through remote technology, these systems can update a driver’s journey in real-time and help mitigate delays.
2.Keep lone workers safe with vehicle GPS tracking
Driver safety is another major concern, particularly during the dark and cold winter nights. Fleet vehicle tracking gives operators a complete overview of a fleet, wherever they are. This solution is particularly useful for lone workers operating in rural areas with limited mobile signal, helping to avoid the risk of stranded drivers. Vehicle tracking gives both drivers and operators peace of mind during the winter months.
3. Embrace AI technology in fleet management
To improve driver safety, fleet operators should be looking to embrace AI technology as part of their management process. AI-enabled camera sensors have been developed to detect collisions and provide real-time remote updates to operators. Through computer vision algorithms, the cameras monitor the road ahead and send risk alerts to drivers. If an accident were to happen in a remote location, the system can send an alert to the operator, who can then respond appropriately.
4. Prepare for heat with temperature monitoring
Although Britain is more commonly known for its drizzle and sleet, British summers are getting warmer, with temperatures reaching over 40° in 2022. This extreme heat unveils a new challenge for operators, particularly those within the food or medical transportation space. Temperature monitoring solutions ensure goods are maintained at the right temperature throughout the journey, alerting the driver and operator of any breaches, such as an open door or increased heat. These solutions also provide customers with a full temperature report on delivery, reducing the risk of rejected loads and increasing customer satisfaction.
Whether it’s tackling the winter roads or avoiding spoilt goods in the summer heat, with the right technology in place, navigating British weather can be a breeze. Taking appropriate measures will ensure vehicles are safe, allowing drivers and operators to focus on essential deliveries.
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