14 ASSOCIATIONS
Sensible driving
Plumbers and their work crews spend many hours on the road travelling to and from jobs . Being aware of the changing weather conditions is critical for safe driving .
By By IOPSA
Photos supplied by IOPSA
Safe driving starts before you get into the vehicle . Each day , ensure that the vehicle is roadworthy ; that it does not present any dangers to the driver , passengers , or other road users . Complete a daily checklist of the entire vehicle before you start your journey . Walk around the entire vehicle , checking the exterior and interior for damages , poor condition , and working order .
A USEFUL ACRONYM FOR VEHICLE CHECKS IS COFTEA :
• Coolant – radiator and expansion tank .
• Oils – engine oil , hydraulic oil , and brake fluid . ( Check area where vehicle parks for signs of leaks .)
• Fuel cap secured . ( Check area where vehicle parks for signs of leaks or any smell of fuel .)
• Tyres ( including spare tyre ) – bald patches , bulges , objects in or around , rips , tears , pressure .
• Electrics – lights , hooter , indicators , hazard lights , and windscreen wipers . Are they clean and working , and free from obstruction ? Is there windscreen wash in the holder ?
• Accessories – seat belts , mirrors , load-securing mechanisms , emergency kit . Does everything work as it should ; is your emergency kit complete ( fire extinguisher , first aid kit , and so on ); are your mirrors set correctly for your driving position ; are the mirrors clean and free of any cracks that may distort your vision ?
BAD WEATHER CONDITIONS After performing the vehicle inspection and being sure that the vehicle is safe to use , a check on the weather conditions is a sensible idea . Generally , being exposed to other drivers and the road conditions is challenging on its own — add bad weather to your journey and the risks increase .
Bad or poor weather can be any weather that is not ideal or favourable to driving safely . This can be rain , mist , or poor light , but also consider bright sunshine , especially after rain , which can reflect sunlight into the driver ’ s eyes .
Severe weather can happen very quickly when you are already en route to your job . Consider the following points :
• Check the weather forecast for the day , before starting your trip . If possible , delay , postpone , or reschedule the trip .
• Always use low-beam headlights . High beams reflect off mist and rain , making it even harder to see .
• Use your headlights , not parking lights , when visibility is poor in mist or in heavy rain .
• Headlights help other drivers to see your vehicle , so be sure they are all working when you do your vehicle check .
• Do not turn using your hazard lights . Driving with your hazard lights on will not warn the driver behind you of your intention to turn , slow down , or stop .
• Hazard lights should only be used when you pull over to show that you have stopped on the side of the road .
• Reduce your speed to give yourself a greater stopping distance and more time to react should dangers appear suddenly .
• Do not overtake other vehicles . It is easier to navigate when you follow another vehicle , but be sure to remain at a safe distance .
• Maintain a safe distance away from all other vehicles around you .
• Drive with the radio turned down and with the window partly open to hear other vehicles better ; especially at intersections .
• Be patient and do not drive aggressively .
• Do not use your cell phone while driving !
Be alert and considerate ; your safety and the safety of your co-workers and other drivers are dependent on your actions .
Be prepared and alert . A considerate driver is a safe driver . PA
Reference : Building Safe South Africa : Best Practise Bulletins # 092 , # 093
August 2018 Volume 24 I Number 6 www . plumbingafrica . co . za