Safe Use of Motor Vehicles

Hello everyone:

In my role as Occupational Health and Safety Champion, I would like to provide you with important information regarding the use of government vehicles in the Atlantic Region.

Fleet vehicles remain an important mode of transportation for employees in the Atlantic Region who are required to travel as part of their jobs. If you are required to transport material or cargo, such as boxes, equipment, or even luggage, the vehicle you choose and the way you pack your cargo, may impact your health and safety.

In order to ensure the safety of all employees, you must first consider what items you are transporting and any potential hazards associated with the load, along with the safety features and cargo capacity of the vehicle.  All motor vehicles shall be operated in a prudent manner.  In all cases, employees should discuss these issues with their team leader or manager, prior to departure.

Vehicles such as vans and SUVs are often used to transport a large quantity of material.  When this material is placed in the back of these motor vehicles without being compartmentalized or adequately secured to prevent shifting or moving, the material could be a potential hazard in the event of an accident or during evasive manoeuvering.

If you are required to transport items that could shift and cause injury, the items must be secured and packed or stowed safely in the vehicle’s trunk, if available.  This will eliminate any risk or hazard associated with shifting objects.  If the material is being stored inside the vehicle, ensure it is properly secured while traveling.

The Atlantic Region recently installed bulkheads in its some of the fleet SUVs and vans to provide a barrier between the storage and passenger compartments. The remaining SUVs and vans in the Atlantic Region will have bulkheads installed in the next few months.  Although bulkheads do provide additional protection, material must still be packed, stowed and secured safely.

In the coming months, the National OHS Office will be releasing a Safe Driving Guide that will be available on the National OHS site.

By working together, we will ensure the well-being of all HRSDC employees in the Atlantic Region. 

Make health and safety your priority!

Arlene van Diepen
Executive Director, Citizen Services - PEI, Atlantic Region