Driver Tiredness workshop for Shell UK and contractors - I

Press Release
15/06/2004

Driver Tiredness workshop for Shell UK and contractors

On June 1st/2nd AWAKE ran a 2-day Driver Tiredness workshop for Shell UK and Shell's contractors: Hoyer, Sucklings and Stiller. The event, which took place at Shell UK's Wythenshawe offices, was attended by 16 delegates from the 4 companies. These included Driver Trainers, Health and Safety Managers, Training Managers, Schedulers, Contract Managers and Transport Managers.

This was the latest in a series of workshops that AWAKE have run for Petrochemical companies, for whom driver tiredness is one of the most challenging issues.

In addition to presentations on the extent of the problem, and the short term countermeasures that drivers and their families can put in place to cope with the effects of shiftwork and driver tiredness, the event was an opportunity for the 4 companies to identify long term strategies that they can put in place to minimise the harmful effects of shift work on the workforce.

The AWAKE organiser said: "This was a groundbreaking event - it is the first time we have run a Driver Tiredness workshop which has been attended by contractors and their client. Shell are to be applauded for their innovative, proactive approach to this most challenging of issues."

"Feedback was universally positive - it was great to see that we were able to bring about a fundamental change in attitude and understanding in the group, from seeing driver tiredness as a sad but almost inevitable consequence of their operations, to recognising that all parties have a part to play in reducing risk. Our role is to show companies that there are effective strategies that they can develop which will have a major impact on driver awareness, reduce accident risk, and which will ultimately result in a safer, happier workforce."

Comments from delegates included:

“I really enjoyed this course, I have learned much and think that one day this seminar could save my life or maybe someone else’s life. Very well presented. Thank you.” (Driver Trainer)

“Excellent package all round, including the CD-Rom” (Transport Manager)

“Most interesting course which detailed the subject in a very professional structure” (Driver training officer)

“A very informative session on a very serious subject” (Contract Manager)

“a very thorough and well put together course with excellent handouts to allow you to relay the message” (Scheduling Ops Transport Technician)

“Very interesting and good format involving expertise from the relevant areas” (Operations Manager)

This is the first of a series of similar events planned by Shell in the UK and Ireland. The next workshop is scheduled for 7th/8th July in Dublin.