Driving for Work

The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (HASAWA) requires employers to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of all employees while at work, including all those engaged in "on the road" work activities. This covers anyone who drives for work purposes - including in their own vehicles. Failure to assess the risks and to clearly communicate appropriate guidance to employees may put you at risk of a criminal prosecution for breaches of the HASAWA or, in serious cases, under the Corporate Manslaughter and Homicide Act 2007.
 
Employers who experience a driver fatality or serious injury can confirm the devastating impact to an employee's family and colleagues. In more high profile cases, there are potentially harmful legal, financial and reputational consequences to the organisation. The Health and Safety Executive may prosecute an employer for the actions of an employee while driving in the course of work. By law, fines cannot be insured; they are intended to be punitive and can prove very costly. If you require any further information on health and safety of employees while at work please contact us.