Best Practices for On-the-Road Employees
by Carmela Manlapig
May 20, 2026
Safety is vital for employees who drive as part of their job. Strong practices help promote awareness, accountability, and preparedness. To support safe travel, employers should establish clear policies and procedures that encourage responsible driving and vehicle safety. By promoting safe driving behaviours, employees can perform their duties confidently while reducing risks for everyone on the road. Below are several key practices to consider.
Pre-Trip Inspections: If employees drive long distances or on a regular basis, their vehicles must be in proper working condition. Having a daily or weekly checklist for inspecting certain areas such as tires, lights, mirrors, brakes, etc. before heading out is a great way to avoid any car trouble and ensure a smooth driving experience. Any issues or concerns identified should be reported immediately before any vehicle is driven.
Regular Breaks: Fatigue can be detrimental to employees who spend long hours on the road. If the driver starts experiencing signs of drowsiness, it might be time to safely pull over and take a proper rest. It is important to encourage breaks at least once every two hours to rest, stretch, and hydrate to maintain alertness and reduce risks of an accident. Prioritizing employee well-being ensures that the job gets done in a timely manner without feeling overworked or rushed.
Avoid Distractions: Drivers are encouraged to remove any distractions and to always focus on the road. Turning on the ‘Do Not Disturb’ feature helps silence all notifications and minimizes distractions. Any non-driving activity such as eating should not be done while the vehicle is in motion. If necessary, employees should find a safe place to pull over for a short break or to answer necessary phone calls and/or messages.
Communication: Inform employees about road safety, comply with applicable laws, and verify all drivers’ qualifications and skills. Additionally, employers should consider weather changes, potential hazards on the road, road closures, and plan driving tasks and routes accordingly. It is also beneficial to outline the proper contact information for emergencies or in case of a collision.
Adhering to these practices allows for a safer work environment and empowers your team to confidently carry out their tasks. When employees stay attentive, prepared, and accountable behind the wheel, it ensures that every trip is completed as safely and as efficiently as possible.