Rebranding Safety with Fleet Geeks – Driver Demands, Blame and Challenges
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Overview
Fleet safety is more than ticking boxes. It’s about real people doing risky work every day. In this episode of Rebranding Safety, James McPherson teams up with Fleet Geeks. They’re a trio of experienced transport professionals. They chat about all things fleet, driver safety, and how safety pros can better manage the risks behind the wheel. Whether you’ve had fleet responsibility land in your lap or you’ve been at it for years, this post breaks it all down.
Rebranding Safety with Fleet Geeks – Driver Demands, Blame and Challenges
Fleet Geeks is a group of three safety and transport experts, namely, Pete, Jamie, and Mike. They chat regularly on their podcast about what’s going on in fleet operations. They keep it real and make fleet management feel less lonely and more understandable. Their podcast is full of practical advice, real stories, and even the occasional joke.
Safety vs. Compliance – They’re Not the Same
One of the biggest points in the episode is the confusion between being safe and being compliant.
Drivers following the rules don’t always mean they’re safe. Imagine finishing a shift, driving home, having dinner, then heading straight back to work after only a few hours’ sleep. Legally, they may be okay, but are they alert and fit to drive a 44-tonne truck?
The Fleet Geeks say we need to look at the spirit of the law, not merely the letter of it. It’s more than finding loopholes. It’s about creating a culture where drivers can speak up, be supported, and get home safe.
What Driving a Truck Is Really Like
Most people don’t realise how hard the job is. Driving involves more than “sitting in a cab.” It’s juggling delivery deadlines, dealing with traffic, working long hours, and often having very little sleep. Drivers need to:
- Know the complex driving rules
- Plan breaks and routes
- Deal with pressure from customers and bosses
- Operate heavy vehicles in tight spaces
In addition, they still have to smile and be polite at every stop. It’s a tough gig.
Why Some Drivers Break the Rules
The episode looks at why drivers may pull their tachograph card (which tracks their hours) or break driving laws. It’s not always because they’re trying to cheat. Sometimes it’s because they’re under pressure.
Maybe they want to get home to see their kids, or their employer pushes them too hard. Instead of blaming drivers, the Fleet Geeks say we should ask why they made that choice and fix the culture.
Big Risks – Vans, Last-Mile Deliveries, and Lack of Oversight
Besides lorries, you need to think about vans too. They are often overlooked but come with big risks. Many don’t have regular inspections, and their drivers aren’t always trained to the same standards.
Last-mile drivers, such as those delivering parcels, are especially under pressure. They work long days with hundreds of stops, tight deadlines, and barely any breaks. With rules being less strict than for HGVs, it’s a safety blind spot you shouldn’t ignore.
Practical Tips for Safety Pros Now Managing Fleet
If the fleet has landed on your desk, here’s what the Fleet Geeks recommend:
- Go out with a driver – Spend a day in the cab. You’ll understand the real risks better than from any desk.
- Focus on real safety, not mere compliance – A good audit score doesn’t mean your drivers are safe.
- Have proper driver inductions – Don’t simply throw them a manual. Make it meaningful, practical, and supportive.
- Communicate often – Set up regular check-ins or toolbox talks to hear what drivers are dealing with.
- Obtain help if you need it – You don’t have to figure it out alone. There are networks, podcasts, and mentoring available.
Where to Go Next
Listen to the Fleet Geeks Podcast:
You can hear more stories and tips directly from Pete, Jamie, and Mike. It’s free, easy to understand, and made for people just like you.
Join the Peer Mentoring Group:
Are you feeling a bit lost in the fleet? The Fleet Geeks offer peer-to-peer group mentoring, so you’re never alone. Great for new safety managers handed fleet responsibilities.
Check Out Flagship Partners:
Do you need training or consultancy support? You can head to flagshippartners.co.uk to find out more.
Final Thought
As one guest said, “Just because nothing has gone wrong yet doesn’t mean you’re safe.”
Fleet safety takes more than luck. It’s about being ready, responsible, and real. Whether you’re new to the fleet or looking to improve your safety culture, start by asking better questions. You can also learn from your drivers, and never settle for only ticking boxes.
Ready to talk?
Let’s talk
Has over 12 years of experience in safety and fire across various industries like healthcare, housing, and manufacturing. As the Managing Director at Risk Fluent and host of the “Rebranding Safety” podcast and YouTube channel, he is committed to making safety discussions engaging. James’s innovative approach and dedication to rebranding safety have made him a respected figure in the field.