ScORSA to hold free webinar aimed at addressing the issue of fatigue and driving for work

Image credit: ScORSA

The Scottish Occupational Road Safety Alliance (ScORSA) will be holding a free webinar aimed at addressing the issue of fatigue and driving for work, on Thursday, 26 November.

The webinar will be the first in a three-part series, with the second and third parts taking place in January and February.

According to figures from Transport Scotland, fatigue is a contributory factor in crashes which kill or seriously-injure around 50 people every year. For those who drive for work the risk factor is increased. The AA recently conducted a survey which revealed nearly two-fifths of UK drivers say they have been so tired they have been scared they would fall asleep when driving.

To address this, part one of ScORSA’s annual St Andrews Webinar will focus on fatigue. Delegates at the workshop session will have the opportunity to discuss the safety issues around driving tired with others.

Dr Karen McDonnell, Head of RoSPA Scotland, will be chairing the online workshop. She said: “Driving tired increases your chances of having a collision. Feeling sleepy behind the wheel is comparable to driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It’s just not acceptable.

“For those who drive for work or manage a team of drivers, the issue of fatigue is something to be taken very seriously. This is why ScORSA is bringing together road safety experts and fleet managers to share best practice, and in doing so help prevent accidents on Scotland’s roads.

“The workshop session will give attendees an opportunity to discuss the issue of driving while tired with colleagues; as we will not be able to meet face-to face this year we want to make sure we’re still providing those valuable networking opportunities to the road safety community.”

Attendees will be provided with background material in advance of the session, including videos, case studies and briefing documents. Those present at the workshop will split into groups to allow for in-depth discussion about fatigue and driving. Each group will be assigned a trained facilitator who will help guide the conversation and ensure everyone is able to contribute.

You can register to attend this free event by sending an email to info@scorsa.org.uk