Introduction to Health and Safety at Work

9.7.5
Typical health and safety rules for drivers 
of cars on company business
The following example shows typical rules that have 
been prepared for use of car drivers.
Approximately 25% of all road accidents are work 
related accidents involving people who are using the 
vehicle on company business. Drivers are expected to 
understand and comply with the relevant requirements 
of the current edition of the Highway Code. The following 
rules have been produced to reduce accidents at work. 
Any breach of these rules will be a disciplinary offence.
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All drivers must have a current and valid driving 
licence
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All vehicles must carry comprehensive insurance for 
use at work
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Plan the journey in advance to avoid, where pos-
sible, dangerous roads or traffi c delays
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Use headlights in poor weather conditions and fog 
lights in foggy conditions
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Use hazard warning lights if an accident or severe 
traffi c congestion is approached (particularly on 
motorways)
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All speed limits must be observed but speeds should 
always be safe for the conditions encountered 
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Drivers must not drive continuously for more than 
2 hours without a break of at least 15 minutes
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Mobile phones, including hands-free equipment, 
must not be used whilst driving. They must be 
turned off during the journey and only used during 
the rest periods or when the vehicle is safely parked 
and the handbrake on
➤
No alcohol must be consumed during the day of the 
journey until the journey is completed. Only minimal 
amounts of alcohol should be consumed on the day 
before a journey is to be made
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No recreational drugs should be taken on the day of a 
journey. Some prescribed and over the counter drugs 
and medicines can also affect driver awareness and 
speed of reaction. Always check with a doctor or 
pharmacist to ensure that it is safe to drive.