An 18-month fleet safety and efficiency training project delivered by Driver Hire Training at Hillingdon Hospital’s patient transport operation, is delivering excellent results. The Trust, which serves the West London area, operates a diverse fleet that includes petrol, diesel and electric powered cars and minibuses.
The aim of the project was to develop a strategic fleet management plan, risk mitigation policies and implement training and consultancy aligned with Hillingdon Hospital’s regulatory and sustainability objectives.
Working with the Hillingdon transport team, Driver Hire Training undertook a consultancy project using driver interviews, a policy document review and operational data. Based on the findings, Driver Hire Training offered best practice recommendations for managing vehicles and drivers. Patient transfers was an area of particular focus.
A fleet risk audit evaluated the condition of vehicles, driver behaviour, journey management and compliance with statutory requirements. Recommendations were made to introduce regular audit cycles and improve record keeping.
Staff took part in a driver training programme which covered defensive driving, patient transport protocols and electric vehicle operating procedures. Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive and, post training, there’s been a measurable reduction in incident rates.
To build internal capacity, selected staff underwent assessor training, equipping them to conduct ongoing driver evaluations. Outcomes included the establishment of a structured evaluation framework with increased peer support for drivers to help them maintain high standards of driving competency and embed a safety culture across the organisation.
“Following the completion of the project there’s been a reduction in vehicle incidents and near misses, lower maintenance and operational costs, as well as improved compliance with fleet policies and statutory requirements,” says Driver Hire Training’s, Steve Dethick. “Hillingdon are delighted with the results.”