Road Journey Management Policy

Road journeys should only be undertaken where deemed necessary for the achievement of business objectives and after any safer journey options have been excluded (e.g. air, rail etc.). 

Temporary hazards should be recognized and drivers informed on a timely basis, the appropriateness of the route should be reviewed. 

On controlled sites, driving safety rules and regulations should be followed.  

The vehicle must be maintained as per the manufacturer’s requirements and tires should have proper pressure and should be in good condition.  

Effective seat belts should be available for all passengers and driver.

Drivers do not exceed the speed limit or safe driving speed. 

Drivers MUST NOT use mobile phones, with or without ear piece/ hands free or other devices that can distract their attention. 

Unauthorized passengers are not allowed into the vehicles. 

The Driver should hold a valid driver’s license for the class of vehicle driven and should not be on probation.  The license should be produced on demand. 

Get the proper amount of rest before starting the journey, it reduces driving risks.

Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage.

Make certain your tires are properly inflated.

Never mix radial tires with other tire types.

Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid gas line freeze-up.

If possible, avoid using your parking brake in cold, rainy and snowy weather.

Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface (wet, ice, sand).

Always look and steer where you want to go.

Use your seat belt every time you get into your vehicle.

Watch weather reports prior to a long-distance drive or before driving in isolated areas.

Delay trips when especially bad weather is expected. If you must leave, let others know your route, destination and estimated time of arrival.

Always make sure your vehicle is in peak operating condition by having it inspected by an approved auto repair facility.

Pack a cellular telephone, blankets, gloves, hats, food, water and any needed medication in your vehicle.

If you become snow-bound, stay with your vehicle. It provides temporary shelter and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you. Don’t try to walk in a severe storm. It’s easy to lose sight of your vehicle in blowing snow and become lost.

Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna or place a cloth at the top of a rolled up window to signal distress. At night, keep the dome light on if possible. It only uses a small amount of electricity and will make it easier for rescuers to find you.

Don’t over exert yourself if you try to push or dig your vehicle out of the snow.

Make sure the exhaust pipe isn’t clogged with snow, ice or mud. A blocked exhaust could
cause deadly carbon monoxide gas to leak into the passenger compartment with the engine running.

Use whatever is available to insulate your body from the cold. This could include floor mats, newspapers or paper maps.

If possible run the engine and heater just long enough to remove the chill and to conserve gasoline.

Is the road surface hard surfaced (e.g. bitumen, concrete) or gravel?

How many lanes are there?

How well is it maintained?

Is the route unsafe at particular hours of the day (e.g. night time or during
peak hours)?

Is there appropriate access to off the road rest stops or overnight lodging?

Is it a holiday? (particularly in countries where fasting is practiced)

Has sufficient time been allowed to complete the journey within the required hours, at safe speeds and with appropriate rest breaks?

What are the effects of rain, snow/ice or fog on the route?

Is the route prone to flooding?

Is there a threat of hijacking or terrorism?

Does any portion of the route fall in sensitive security zones, where additional measures need to be taken?

Is wildlife or livestock likely to wander onto the road?

Does the route have a high accident frequency rate?

Is there a requirement for periodic communication from the vehicle during
stopovers on long routes?

Are there areas from where the communication is not possible?